After dedicating 24 years toward improving Whitman’s media center, Media Specialist Virginia Trulio is retiring this year.

Originally, Trulio was drawn to Whitman because of the school’s cutting edge technology. However, Trulio said she realized after arriving that Whitman’s true medallion is its students.

“Our students are polite, kind and interested in learning,” Trulio said. “That is what sets us apart from everyone else.”

Over the years, Trulio has seen multiple technological advancements within Whitman: the addition of 40 new computers in the media center, the implementation of scanners and wifi and the introduction of Promethean boards. During her time here, she has also assisted thousands of students with their research projects.

Trulio helped develop the freshman research paper, the first major writing piece done by Whitman students. This assignment starts preparing students for college by teaching them crucial writing and researching skills.

“Originally, students had returned from college saying that they didn’t have enough practice with reading and writing,” Trulio said. “Now, many students have learned to do excellent research and writing at Whitman. That has been a function of both the Media Center and the English department.”

Trulio’s legacy will not only be her aid in the improvement and implementation of the research paper, but also for her one-on-one assistance with students.

“As freshmen, we’re kind of new to the experience, and she gave us individualized help,” freshman Eva Herscowitz said. “She walked us through the process and made it really easy.”

Teachers and students alike have appreciated her contributions and dedication to her challenging job.

“When it comes down to her, she’s so meticulous. The woman is a true master of her craft,” English teacher Geoffrey Schaefer said. “I’ve have worked at other schools where the media specialists are there, but she’s involved.”