The Michigan Daily

🗓️ Foundational Years

Since its inception on September 29, 1890, The Daily has been a significant chronicler of events. Its early history includes being the first newspaper to report the announcement of Jonas Salk's polio vaccine in 1955 and sending a staff member to cover the first day of integration in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957.

📣 Activism and Influence

During the 1960s, the publication became a symbol of student activism, particularly under the influence of Tom Hayden, a former editor-in-chief and co-founder of Students for a Democratic Society (SDS). The paper gained national attention for its stances, including urging the legalization of marijuana in 1967 and calling for the reinstatement of the military draft during the Gulf War in 1991.

💡 Cultural Impact

The Daily played a pivotal role in the spread of the "Paul is dead" urban legend in 1969, with an article detailing supposed clues, many of which were fabricated by the reporters themselves. This event highlights the paper's capacity to influence cultural narratives.

🏛️ Modern Milestones

Notable achievements include the renovation of its historic building at 420 Maynard Street in 2007, funded by alumni donations. In 2014, the paper received national recognition for breaking news regarding sexual misconduct allegations against a Michigan football player. The establishment of its podcast section in 2017 further expanded its media presence.

📅 Publishing Schedule

The Daily publishes content daily. Its print editions follow a weekly schedule during the fall and winter semesters, transitioning to a tabloid format during the summer months (May to August).

📰 Key Sections

The broadsheet editions feature distinct sections, including a comprehensive SportsWednesday section. Additionally, special themed issues like The B-Side from the Arts section and the magazine, formerly Weekend Magazine and now renamed The Statement (a nod to Tom Hayden's influential work), offer diverse content.

📰 Journalism Giants

Many alumni have achieved prominence in journalism, contributing to major publications like The New York Times, The Washington Post, Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, Time magazine, and the Chicago Tribune. Notably, seven Pulitzer Prize winners have emerged from The Daily, including Eugene Robinson, Lisa Pollak, Ann Marie Lipinski, Amy Harmon, Stanford Lipsey, and Arthur Miller. Broadcast journalist David Schechter is also a recipient of the du-Pont Columbia Award.

🏛️ Public Service and Business

Beyond journalism, alumni have made significant contributions to public service and business. Notable figures include playwright Arthur Miller, former Governor of New York and presidential candidate Thomas E. Dewey, activist Tom Hayden (founder of SDS), investment banker Bruce Wasserstein, physician and journalist Sanjay Gupta, former chairman of American Airlines George A. Spater, journalist and host Mike Wallace, and former Lieutenant Governor of Missouri Harriett Woods.

🏆 Recognition and Awards

The Daily itself has garnered significant recognition, including the 2023 National Pacemaker Award for online media. It has also received numerous accolades from organizations such as the Society of Professional Journalists (in 2020 and 2021) and the Michigan College Press Association (in 2018), underscoring its consistent quality and impact.

📜 References