Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Student Newspaper in Beaumont, TX
University Press has been Lamar University's award-winning student-run newspaper since 1923. Founded as The S'Park Plug, our publication has evolved through name changes and economic challenges while maintaining journalistic excellence. As one of the nation's most respected student newspapers, we've earned over 1,200 awards since 1977, including Best Non-Daily Student Newspaper recognitions. Our diverse staff represents over 20 countries and has launched careers at major media outlets like CNN and The Associated Press.Under directors Howard Perkins and Andy Coughlan, we maintain rigorous editorial standards while embracing digital innovation. Our commitment to quality journalism remains unwavering, serving as both a training ground for future journalists and a vital information source for the Lamar University community.
Services
Student Newspaper
News Coverage
Media Awards
Journalism Training
Digital Publications
Details
- Year established: 1923
Highlights and features
- Award-winning student journalism since 1923
- Diverse staff representing over 20 countries
- Over 1,200 awards since 1977
- Professional training ground for future journalists
- Digital innovation combined with traditional journalism
Services
Student Newspaper
Our student-run newspaper provides comprehensive coverage of university events, academic developments, and student life. With over 1,200 awards since 1977, we maintain professional journalism standards while training future media professionals. Our content reaches both campus and local communities through print and digital platforms.
Media Awards
We consistently earn national recognition for journalistic excellence, having received more than 1,200 awards since 1977. Our accolades include multiple first-place finishes in the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association competitions and recognition from professional organizations like the Press Club of Southeast Texas.
Digital Publications
We maintain a robust digital presence with online news updates, multimedia content, and archived editions. Our digital team produces engaging web content while maintaining the same editorial standards as our print edition, reaching wider audiences through modern platforms.
Journalism Training
As a student-run organization, we provide hands-on journalism training in reporting, editing, photography, and digital media. Our program develops professional skills through real-world experience, preparing students for careers in modern media environments.
Community Engagement
We serve as a vital communication link between the university and local community. Through event coverage, opinion pieces, and feature stories, we foster engagement with campus activities while maintaining journalistic independence and integrity.
People
Julian M. Galiano
Former Editor
Served as editor when the newspaper was renamed University Press in 1971. Created the Julian M. Galiano Memorial scholarship for journalism students in 2016.
Howard Perkins
Former Director
Directed student publications from 1976 to 2011. Adviser-of-the-Year recipient in 1979. The Howard A. Perkins Scholarship was established in his honor in 2011.
Andy Coughlan
Director
Current director with 23 years of experience at University Press. Served as assistant director before becoming director in 2013. Oversees daily operations and staff development.
Stephan Malick
Assistant Director
Returned to University Press in 2015 as assistant director after serving as editor. Brings 18 years of journalism education experience to staff training and content oversight.
Questions
Where can I find past editions of University Press?
Archived editions are available through the Mary and John Gray Library's online digital collection at Lamar University.
Can non-journalism students join the staff?
Yes, our staff is open to students from all majors. We welcome diverse perspectives and provide training for all positions.
How often is University Press published?
We publish twice weekly during the academic year - every Wednesday and Friday - with special editions for major campus events.
Does University Press offer internships?
All student staff positions function as internships, providing professional journalism experience and academic credit opportunities for participants.