Purdue Student Newspaper’s Distribution Support Cut by University: What It Means for Students and Community

Purdue University recently informed The Purdue Exponent, its long-standing student newspaper, that it would no longer provide distribution on campus. This decision came in a letter dated May 30, which also revoked parking passes for student journalists and requested the removal of "Purdue" from the newspaper’s name.

The letter stated that the university would not renew the contract governing distribution terms. Purdue explained that the organization behind The Exponent lacks a license to use the Purdue name for commercial purposes. In response, The Exponent claimed it holds copyright to the name until 2029 and mentioned that the parking passes were part of a deal made in the 1980s when the paper sold land to Purdue.

Founded in 1889, The Exponent operates independently under the Purdue Student Publishing Foundation. Despite having some distribution agreements with the university since 1975, Purdue hasn’t renewed the official agreement since 2014 but had been assisting with distribution until now.

This decision comes amid a growing trend of student journalists facing challenges nationwide regarding press freedom. Purdue defended its stance by stating that providing distribution to just one media organization contradicts principles of fairness and institutional neutrality.

Kyle Charters, the publisher of The Exponent, expressed concern that this policy will hinder their ability to share news with the campus community. He noted that without university support, distributing the paper has become increasingly difficult. Sophomore reporter Quint Holguin added that the news caught the team off guard, highlighting the importance of university assistance in their reporting efforts.

Dominic Coletti from the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education criticized Purdue’s actions. He emphasized that the university is misusing the concept of institutional neutrality to limit free expression rather than foster it.

Purdue insists it is not blocking The Exponent’s distribution entirely, stating that the newspaper would still have access to unsponsored distribution racks on campus, albeit on a less reliable basis.

Despite these challenges, The Exponent plans to continue its work, aiming to keep the campus informed.

In a time when student media faces increasing threats, this situation underlines the vital role of independent journalism in academia. According to a recent survey by the Student Press Law Center, over 60% of student journalists have experienced censorship in some form. As universities navigate their relationships with student publications, the balance between institutional policy and press freedom will be crucial to uphold.

For further insights on press rights, check the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education.

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