With two years of experience in The Observer sports department, Mike Connolly was elected editor in chief of The Observer for the 2000-2001 year by a vote of the newspaper's General Board Thursday night.

A sophomore from Sparta, N.J., Connolly lives in Dillon Hall. He is an American studies major and plans to pursue a career as a reporter and possibly a newspaper editor.

"I look forward to working with a talented and experienced staff," Connolly said. "I hope to build on the high standards set for us by past Observer staff members."

Connnolly joined The Observer staff his freshman year. He has covered football, women's soccer and fencing beats and has served as an associate sports editor since spring 1999.

In addition to his on-campus journalism experience, Connolly has written for the Michigan Football Weekly and the College Sports Writers' Network.

"Mike will do an amazing job," said Michelle Krupa, the outgoing editor in chief. "I've seen him give so much of himself to this place. He understands The Observer's tradition of excellence and what makes it work. I'm proud to pass on this job to Mike."

Connolly will assume the position after spring break.

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