I am honored to have been chosen as the editor for the Journal of Family and Economic Issues. The previous editor, Jing Jian Xiao, was responsible for bringing this journal into international prominence. I am planning on continuing in his footsteps and expanding on his good work. I believe that the Journal of Family and Economic Issues will continue to grow in prominence. This journal is becoming recognized as one that welcomes a diversity of methodological and theoretical perspectives.

This first issue of 2012 is Jing Jian Xiao’s work. When I stepped into the role of editor, Jing had enough manuscripts already on OnLine First to fill this issue. The Associate Editors, the reviewers, and I are hard at work building future issues. A number of manuscripts are currently under review as well as being revised. We have one special issue currently in development for the June issue.

I want to thank Jing Jian Xiao for his help and patience during the transition. Priya Sambandam at the editorial office has been exceedingly kind in answering all my questions. Latha Kalyanaraman is helping me understand the publication process and timeframe. I have been on-the-job for only a few weeks, so I hope that any errors and confusions will be forgiven. I am learning quickly and hope to have a system worked out soon.