On Feb. 28, more than 100 Miami University alumni representing seven decades gathered in the Shriver Center to celebrate 200 years of independent, student-produced journalism at The Miami Student newspaper. These alumni were joined by dozens of current TMS members, along with Miami faculty and staff. The turnout was so large that event planners moved Saturday’s program to a larger space a few days earlier.
Throughout the day, alumni spoke with reverence and pride about their time at The Miami Student and how their undergraduate experiences shaped them personally and professionally. As they shared their stories, it became clear the impact and legacy of their work extended well beyond individual anecdotes or experiences.
That is, after all, what journalists do best: serve something bigger than themselves. They serve the public through fearless reporting that holds decision-makers accountable, while also celebrating the successes and achievements of their neighbors.
Without local journalism like that produced by TMS for 200 years — and counting — the fabric of our campus community frays. To me, that seems worth celebrating well beyond a single day in late February.
Joe Sampson
Senior Clinical Lecturer — Miami University Journalism Program
Joe Sampson (class of 1994) has taught journalism at Miami since 2001. He currently serves as the Journalism program’s area coordinator. Sampson previously worked in television news for twelve years. His all-time favorite Miami student is his daughter Maggie (class of 2025).
Read More
How a hobby became my life
By Elisa Rosenthal | 12 hours ago"The Student is where I found my friends, but also a passion. It has given me a pastime, an outlet, connections, a place on the sidelines, an awesome team and, above all, my best friends in the world."
Who’s who at MU: Head of special collections
By Shannon Mahoney | YesterdayIf you’ve ever wanted to learn more about Miami University’s past, research the history of Western College or find the first copy of The Miami Student, chances are you’ve ended up at the university archives, a collection of Miami’s 217-year-long history. Behind this complex collection, one woman is at the center of it all: Jacky Johnson, head of special collections and archives.
How The Miami Student has transformed my college experience
By Jayson Brake | Yesterday"The Student has driven me to make college what I want it to be and has taught me not to let myself stick to what is comfortable and easy. Being creative while also working on something that is bigger than myself and can truly mean something has been such an amazing experience that I hope to continue until graduation."