IU Fully Discontinues IDS Print: What Comes Next for the Publication

Indiana University (IU) has completely ceased the print publication of the Indiana Daily Student (IDS) and its special editions. This decision comes shortly after the dismissal of Jim Rodenbush, the former Director of Student Media. The announcement was made abruptly, leaving the planned edition of IDS volume 158, which was to be published Thursday, discontinued.

Termination of Print by IU

The decision to cut print follows previous directives from IU and The Media School to halt regular news coverage in print. These had only allowed for special editions as inserts. The Student Press Law Center argued this was a form of unlawful censorship and urged a reversal of the guidelines. Despite these concerns, IU proceeded to terminate print entirely after Rodenbush resisted enforcement of the directive.

Administrative Responses

Media School Dean David Tolchinsky issued the order via email, dismissing an appeal for continued print operations. IU spokesperson Mark Bode and several administrators were contacted for further explanation, with Galen Clavio, the Media School’s associate dean for undergraduate education, indicating that an interim director would be appointed soon. However, no significant responses concerning Rodenbush’s termination or the print discontinuation were received.

University’s Commitment to Free Expression

IU Bloomington Chancellor David Reingold reiterated the university’s commitment to free expression and editorial independence. “The university has not and will not interfere with editorial judgment,” he stated. The campus’s transition from print to digital is cited as purely a distribution medium shift, intended to uphold editorial freedom.

Concerns and Consequences

• The abrupt cessation of print may damage IDS’s advertising agreements, impacting revenue.
• Questions arise about whether future digital content might face similar restrictions.
• Discussions with Michael Arnold, executive director of integrated public media, have been described as constructive.

Despite IU’s assurances, skepticism remains regarding the university’s true motives. Many view the shift as a potential breach of editorial independence. IDS representatives emphasize that editorial decisions should remain with the students and express concern over the university’s potential influence on digital platforms.