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Pulaski Crier Celebrates 75 Years as Nation's Longest-Running Student Paper

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/05 .. s-as-nation-s-longest-running-student-paper.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, March 5th 2026 at 18:20 GMT by Fox 11 News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Pulaski, VA - March 5th, 2026 - The newsstands of Pulaski County, and increasingly, the digital devices of its residents, are buzzing with celebration as The Pulaski Crier marks its 75th anniversary. Founded in 1951, this seemingly modest student-run newspaper has quietly and consistently achieved a feat unparalleled in American journalism: it is officially recognized as the nation's longest-running student community paper. While many high school and college newspapers come and go, The Pulaski Crier has not only survived but thrived for three-quarters of a century, becoming an integral part of the social fabric of Pulaski County.

What began as a small, mimeographed bulletin board notice has evolved - though its core mission has remained remarkably consistent. Initially focused on school news and local events, the Crier quickly broadened its scope to reflect the concerns and interests of the wider Pulaski community. Early editions, now carefully archived by the Pulaski County Historical Society, document the post-war boom, the changing face of American industry in the region, and the daily lives of residents during a period of significant social transformation.

"It's incredible to think about all the history this paper has witnessed," says Eleanor Vance, a local historian and long-time subscriber. "Reading through the archives is like taking a step back in time. You see the evolution of Pulaski County through the eyes of its students, offering a unique and invaluable perspective."

The longevity of The Pulaski Crier isn't merely a matter of luck; it's a testament to the dedication and passion of generations of student volunteers. Unlike many school publications that receive significant funding from educational institutions, the Crier operates on a truly grassroots level. Its survival hinges on the commitment of students who devote their time, energy, and talent - often balancing their journalistic pursuits with demanding academic schedules and extracurricular activities.

The paper's financial model is equally unique. Eschewing large institutional grants, The Pulaski Crier relies entirely on advertisements and sponsorships from local businesses. This symbiotic relationship underscores the newspaper's deep connection to the community it serves. Businesses understand the value of reaching a dedicated readership, while the Crier benefits from the financial support necessary to cover printing costs, website maintenance, and essential resources. This model also fosters a sense of mutual accountability, with the paper striving to provide businesses with effective advertising and the businesses supporting the paper's continued operation.

However, the path hasn't always been smooth. The rise of digital media and the changing consumption habits of news have presented significant challenges. While many traditional newspapers have struggled to adapt, The Pulaski Crier has embraced the digital age, establishing a robust online presence through a regularly updated website and active social media accounts. They are not simply replicating print content online, but are also experimenting with multimedia formats like podcasts and video interviews to reach a wider audience.

The current editor-in-chief, 17-year-old Samuel Peterson, recognizes the importance of innovation. "We're trying to meet our readers where they are," he explains. "While we still publish a print edition every two weeks, we're also focused on creating engaging content for our online platforms. We're using social media to share breaking news, highlight community events, and interact with our readers."

Looking ahead, The Pulaski Crier is committed to continuing its legacy as a voice for the community. Plans for the 75th-anniversary celebration include a special commemorative edition, a community open house, and a fundraising campaign to establish an endowment to ensure the paper's financial stability for future generations. The paper also hopes to expand its mentorship program, pairing experienced student journalists with younger aspiring writers to ensure the continuation of this vital tradition. The dedication to local issues remains strong, with ongoing coverage of school board meetings, town council proceedings, and local sports. Beyond the purely factual, the Crier is increasingly focusing on feature stories that highlight the unique characters and hidden gems of Pulaski County, further solidifying its role as a chronicler of local life.

The story of The Pulaski Crier is more than just a story about a newspaper. It's a story about community, resilience, and the power of student voices. In an era often dominated by national narratives, The Pulaski Crier serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of local journalism and the enduring value of community connection.