By and large, most student newspapers receive some financial support from their colleges and universities. Some of the most respected student newspapers in the country, however, have independent status. Such independence is meant to ensure impartial news coverage, but it also means the paper won’t be bailed out by the university if times get tough.
“I certainly think it stands to reason that student newspapers that are supported through student fees … or through some sort of subsidy are probably more resilient to economic downturns,” said Logan Aimone, president of the Associated Collegiate Press, which works to improve student media and steer students toward careers in journalism.
Independent newspapers, however, aren’t the only ones that have had financial troubles in recent times. Howard University’s student-run newspaper, The Hilltop, shut down its print publication completely in March, citing financial woes. But the paper, which owed its printer $48,000 after a period of fiscal mismanagement, was bailed out by administrators and resumed daily print editions in August.