In 2026, The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír turns 100.
Searchlight was the first student newspaper, beginning in February 1926. A few months later, Searchlight disbanded and was replaced by The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír, which published its first issue July 29, 1926, under the leadership of its first editor-in-chief, Peg Hayes. Since that time, The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír has remained an independent, fully student-run news source, training generations of journalists, designers, photographers and media leaders.
To mark the centennial, Student Media and The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír are planning a year of celebration and reflection. This spring, original editorial comic artwork by (The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír staff, 1995–2000) will be showcased, and O’Connor will visit campus to speak about the power and impact of editorial comics in journalism. Around graduation, an alumni gathering will celebrate those who paved the way and welcome the newest members of the alumni community.
In the fall, Student Media will partner with the School of Visual Communication Design to present a retrospective of Jerry Dantzic, honoring his prolific career and lasting influence. A Homecoming celebration and additional centennial moments across campus are also in the works.
This is just the beginning. Those interested in attending events, contributing stories or memories, supporting the centennial or staying connected during the celebration of 100 years of The ¹ú²úÂ×Àír are encouraged to contact Katrina Chandler, director of Student Media, at kchand10@kent.edu. Student Media looks forward to honoring the past and looking ahead to the next century of student journalism.