Sixty years ago, a small group of determined banana slugs set out to build something UC Santa Cruz was lacking: an independent, student-run newspaper. Through the guidance of editor-in-chief Zack Wasserman, the group launched their first issue on Sept. 30, 1966 under the name Campus News.

However, this title only served the publication for one release. On the last page of Campus News’ debut print, a small box was attached, asking students to submit their suggestions for a new name. This was accompanied by a short note: “Student ideas are being solicited for two reasons. One is that it is the wish of this newspaper to be truly a student publication. Secondly, we desire to make the title representative of student desires and aims for both their university and their newspaper.”

By the second issue, released Dec. 9, 1966, The Fulcrum was unveiled, with its masthead sketched in thick, black ink. But this name didn’t stick. On Jan. 13, 1967, the publication changed to what is now known as City on a Hill Press, accompanied by a small, hand drawn icon of an archer shooting a bow-and-arrow. Reporter Alex Bloom wrote that this rebrand was intended to represent Santa Cruz as “the city on the hill” of progressive American education. 

Regardless of how many names the publication went through, its mission was always clear: to serve the campus and watchdog the administration.

Since its initial launch, City on a Hill Press has retained its original mission. Early issues relay information about the opening of McHenry Library, enforced military drafts during the Vietnam War and tuition hikes of the 1960s. Recent coverage informs readers about rising parking permit fees, local anti-Trump protests, campus events and anything else that uplifts underreported topics from the student perspective. 

As City on a Hill Press reaches its 60th anniversary, it remains grounded as a pillar of community, producing news that is for students, by students. In an age where media is heavily influenced and censored by investors and political administrations, UCSC’s student journalists continue to prioritize giving accessible, accurate and uncorporatized information to the students and the local community. 

THIS COLLAGE INCLUDES IMAGES FROM THE CHP ARCHIVES