Introduction
The Varsity UMD, established in 1942, is the independent student newspaper of the University of Maryland, College Park. It is run entirely by students, who report on campus news, sports, culture, and opinions. The Varsity UMD is distributed weekly in print and online, with a readership of over 30,000 students.
History
The Varsity UMD was founded in 1942 as a four-page weekly newspaper called “The Campus Umpire.” In 1947, the name was changed to “The Varsity.” In the 1950s and 1960s, the newspaper expanded its coverage to include more campus news, sports, and culture. In the 1970s, the Varsity UMD became more politically active, covering student protests and campus controversies.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the Varsity UMD continued to grow in size and scope. In 1986, the newspaper launched its online edition. In 1997, the Varsity UMD became financially independent from the University of Maryland.
Structure of the Newspaper
The Varsity UMD is divided into four sections:
- News: Covers campus news, events, and issues.
- Sports: Covers all Terps sports teams, from football to basketball to lacrosse.
- Culture: Covers campus arts, music, and entertainment.
- Opinion: Features editorials, columns, and letters to the editor from students, faculty, and staff.
The Varsity UMD is also home to several special sections, including:
- The Diamondback: A weekly supplement that covers the University of Maryland’s graduate school.
- The Preview: A monthly magazine that covers campus life and culture.
- The Homecoming Issue: An annual issue that celebrates the University of Maryland’s homecoming weekend.
Funding and Operation
The Varsity UMD is funded through advertising, subscription fees, and donations. The newspaper is operated by a staff of student volunteers, who are led by a team of student editors.
The Varsity UMD is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press (ACP) and the College Media Association (CMA).
Impact of the Newspaper
The Varsity UMD is an important part of the University of Maryland community. The newspaper provides students with a forum to express their opinions, hold the university accountable, and connect with each other.
The Varsity UMD has also played a significant role in shaping the university’s history. In the 1960s, the newspaper covered the student protests against the Vietnam War. In the 1980s, the Varsity UMD investigated the university’s handling of sexual assault cases.
Today, the Varsity UMD continues to be a vital source of news and information for the University of Maryland community. The newspaper plays an important role in holding the university accountable, informing students about campus issues, and fostering a sense of community.
Conclusion
The Varsity UMD is a vital part of the University of Maryland community. The newspaper provides students with a forum to express their opinions, hold the university accountable, and connect with each other. The Varsity UMD has also played a significant role in shaping the university’s history. Today, the newspaper continues to be a vital source of news and information for the University of Maryland community.
- What is the Varsity UMD?
The Varsity UMD is the independent student newspaper of the University of Maryland, College Park. It is run entirely by students, who report on campus news, sports, culture, and opinions.
- How often is the Varsity UMD published?
The Varsity UMD is published weekly in print and online.
- How do I get a copy of the Varsity UMD?
You can pick up a copy of the Varsity UMD at various locations on campus, including the Stamp Student Union, the McKeldin Library, and the Maryland Stadium. You can also read the Varsity UMD online at www.thevarsityumd.com.
- How can I get involved with the Varsity UMD?
You can join the Varsity UMD staff by applying online at www.thevarsityumd.com/apply.
- How can I contact the Varsity UMD?
You can contact the Varsity UMD by email at [email protected] or by phone at (301) 314-8313.
- The Varsity UMD website
- The Varsity UMD Twitter account
- The Varsity UMD Facebook page
- The Varsity UMD Instagram account