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Indiana Student Newspaper Wins National Championship, Overcomes Financial Challenges

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/15 .. championship-overcomes-financial-challenges.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 6:48 GMT by WDRB
      Locales: Kentucky, Indiana, UNITED STATES

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. - The Indiana Daily Student (IDS), Indiana University's student newspaper, has not only clinched a national championship for its sports coverage, but has also overcome recent financial hurdles to deliver a wildly successful commemorative issue. The newspaper's victory is a testament to the enduring importance of student journalism and the continued appeal of print media in a digitally saturated world.

Just weeks ago, the IDS faced potential print cuts that threatened the future of its physical publication. These cuts sparked anxieties within the newsroom and raised questions about the paper's ability to fulfill its mission of providing comprehensive coverage of campus life, especially during a highly anticipated moment for IU athletics. The potential for a diminished or absent championship issue - traditionally a highly sought-after collectible for students - loomed large.

"It felt like we were walking on eggshells," explained Jake Pearlman, editor-in-chief of the IDS, speaking on February 15th, 2026. "We were constantly evaluating our resources and wondering if we'd have the budget to pull off the championship issue, a paper we knew the student body was looking forward to."

The root of the financial instability stemmed from declining advertising revenue, a challenge faced by many student and local newspapers in recent years. The rise of digital marketing and the shift in advertising budgets towards online platforms have put significant pressure on traditional print publications. This, combined with the increasing costs of paper and distribution, created a perfect storm of financial difficulties.

However, the IDS team refused to concede. They implemented a series of cost-saving measures, explored new fundraising opportunities, and worked tirelessly to secure additional funding. Ultimately, they were able to regain some financial footing, allowing them to proceed with the championship issue. A print run of 5,000 copies was authorized, and the paper quickly sold out, demonstrating a strong demand for physical copies. The success extended beyond immediate sales, with a notable increase in new subscriptions, bolstering the paper's long-term financial stability.

"I think a lot of students were excited to see something tangible they could hold in their hands," Pearlman said. "We've been in a pretty digital world for a while, so getting a physical copy of the paper was something students wanted, especially to commemorate this significant win for IU basketball." This observation highlights a surprising trend: despite the prevalence of digital news sources, many students still value the experience of reading a physical newspaper.

The championship issue itself focused on IU's recent victory, featuring in-depth reporting, insightful analysis, and stunning photography. The paper's coverage of the basketball season, which ultimately earned it the national championship, was praised for its objectivity, thoroughness, and compelling storytelling. This marks the first time the IDS has received the award in over two decades, a significant milestone for the student journalists involved.

"It's been a really tough semester," Pearlman admitted. "The financial uncertainty was incredibly stressful for everyone on staff. But seeing the paper thrive like this, both financially and in terms of recognition, shows just how important it is to the student body and the broader university community."

The IDS's triumph serves as a valuable lesson for other student newspapers facing similar challenges. It demonstrates the importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and a commitment to serving the community. Furthermore, it underscores the enduring appeal of high-quality journalism, regardless of the medium. The willingness of students to support their local paper, even in the face of digital alternatives, shows that there's still a strong appetite for trustworthy, locally-focused news. Looking ahead, the IDS plans to continue exploring innovative ways to fund its operations while maintaining its commitment to delivering impactful journalism to the Indiana University campus.