ABOUT US
A UH tradition since 1934
Student Publications is home to two of the University’s oldest traditions: The Daily Cougar student newspaper and the Houstonian yearbook. Both have been published continuously since 1934.
In our department, students are responsible for the day-to-day operation of The Daily Cougar, the Houstonian and Transitions magazine, with support from five professional UH staff members. The department also receives oversight from the Student Publications Committee, which elects the student editors who lead the newspaper and yearbook. Student Publications is not directly affiliated with the School of Communication, though it is located in the same building.
Student Publications, which falls under the Division of Student Affairs, has five units: Editorial, Advertising, Business Office, Production, and the Houstonian yearbook.
Mission statement
Our mission is to provide accurate and relevant news and information to students, faculty and staff in a timely and accurate fashion as frequently as possible. We also encourage editorial focus upon the complex university community and its impact on students, faculty, staff and other groups, including the general public. Student Publications will continue to focus on the ever-changing demographics and activities of our diverse campus population.
Further, our mission is to foster an open and objective environment among Student Publications staff members that provides a public forum for viewpoints and opinion; to teach that a news medium is a conduit for free speech and the clarification of public issues and ideas. Finally, our mission is to work with students in a learning environment where the canons and ethics of journalism are practical issues.
Code of ethics
Because of the department’s unique role as a news medium, it encourages its students to adhere to principles set forth by the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. In addition, The Daily Cougar follows a set of ethical guidelines endorsed by SPC.
Download The Daily Cougar Policy and Ethics Manual
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