TCI Magazine celebrated 35 years of publication in 2025. For 427 issues, since June 1990 – through recessions, global pandemics and spikes in printing and postage costs – TCI Magazine has hit the industry’s mailboxes every single month.

JON GERSTENBERGER

During those 427 issues, it’s been through a handful of redesigns and a few editors, undergone a major digital expansion – the list goes on. What I’m writing to share with you is one of the most momentous changes in recent history.

After two decades of exceptional leadership, our longtime editor, Don Staruk, will be retiring at the end of 2025 (see Don’s farewell article in the November 2025 issue of TCI). Don’s contributions have shaped the voice and quality of TCI Magazine, and his example will continue to inspire our work moving forward. We are deeply grateful for his commitment and vision over the years, as well as his unwavering dedication to the editorial integrity that has built the magazine to what it is today – the pinnacle of educational and essential content for the tree care industry.

As we turn the page to a new chapter, we’re pleased to share that Peter Gerstenberger, who has more than 40 years of experience at TCIA and was one of the founders of TCI Magazine, will remain its publisher. Peter’s deep industry knowledge and editorial insight will ensure our content continues to meet the lofty standards our readers expect and deserve.

Dennis Schaefer and Susan DiPietro will remain with the TCI Magazine team in their respective roles of art director and managing editor, providing additional stability and insight during the transition.

I will be taking on oversight of the magazine as part of a broader “media house” initiative at TCIA. This new structure is designed to enhance collaboration across our communications platforms, amplify member voices and expand the reach and impact of our storytelling. We want to engage even more of the industry in the development of the content we produce and widen the range of media we offer to provide a deeper, more complete educational experience. We remain committed to producing thoughtful, relevant and engaging content – and we’re confident these changes will strengthen our ability to do so.

We’d like to thank all our subscribers, writers and advertisers for creating the community that allows TCI Magazine to continue to thrive. None of this would be possible without your contributions and/or participation.

If you have questions about the transition or want to learn more about our media-house initiative, feel free to contact me any time. I will be sure to introduce our new editor, Esther de Hollander, soon! We’re excited for what the future holds!

Jon Gerstenberger is vice president, communications & technology, for the Tree Care Industry Association.