Standing on the shoulders: student journalists at HBCUs carry legacy of their craft and their institutions

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long played a central role in educating Black journalists, yet little research has examined the health and function of student media at these institutions. Building on prior research documenting the decline of student news outlets at HBCUs, this qualitative study explores the shared values and indicators of health among student-run news organizations through the lens of institutional theory. In-depth interviews were conducted with 16 student journalists and editors representing eight HBCUs during the 2024–2025 academic year. Using an inductive thematic analysis, this study identifies five core themes shaping student newsroom culture: pride in the HBCU, value of legacy, role in the greater community, intrinsic reward, and varying perceptions of institutional health. Findings indicate that student journalists balance both ambassadorship and watchdog roles, and they grapple with tensions between institutional loyalty and journalistic independence. Participants demonstrated strong commitment to journalistic ethics, community service, and dedication to sustaining their publications for future generations. While various factors threaten sustainability, deeply rooted journalistic values and strong sense of legacy among student journalists contribute to the continued value and vitality of these institutions and their instrumental role in shaping future Black media professionals.