Note from the Senior Editor
Finding a Vegan Community
My adventures with The Vegetarian Resource Group began back in 1998. I was a college student, and it was before blogs, social media, and even Amazon. I was a new vegan, the only one I knew, and both recipes and information were challenging to come by. When I discovered Vegetarian Journal at a local bookstore, I immediately subscribed, then bought several VRG books as well. It's safe to say that this organization has shaped my vegan experience from the earliest days.
Five years ago, when I was offered the position of Senior Editor, it was an opportunity too good to pass up. This was a chance to contribute to VRG and the vegan community around the country, using skills I had sharpened over the years at other publications. I was here through the pandemic, personal life changes, and even major losses. The magazine feels like a loyal friend through these ups and downs, and my affection for Vegan Journal runs deep.
All things must and do change, though. The time has come to move my career in another direction. This isn't goodbye forever; I hope to continue contributing to the magazine over time.
To say I'm grateful for my tenure as Senior Editor is an understatement. I could easily fill an entire page with thanks, from Coordinators Charles and Debra, to Nutrition Advisor Reed Mangels, to magazine copy editors Keryl and Carole, all the wonderful interns, and of course, the other contributors. In fact, the new Senior Editor is familiar to Vegan Journal readers. I'm confident you will be in excellent hands with Hannah Kaminsky, and her creativity and passion will lead the Journal in exciting new directions.
As we look ahead, I hope you will find your own inspiration as you explore VRG's 2023 scholarships winners on pages 26-30. Ready to get into the kitchen? Check out Roberto Perez's homestyle Mexican fusion cooking on pages 6-10, or my latest culinary collection, all recipes you can make ahead and store in jars in the pantry, on pages 16-21.
Sometimes I wonder... Are there other solo vegans out there, like I was 28 years ago? Perhaps they pick up this magazine and find a home? I hope so. That has been my inspiration each time I sit down to design, edit, and write for this publication. I hope this will motivate you to continue supporting VRG and the Journal with your year-end giving plans, too, knowing that the funds sent and volunteer hours contributed create a larger community for all vegans.
Rissa Miller
(Former) Senior Editor of Vegan Journal
