EDITOR’S CORNER: A Legacy of Student Journalism, 100 Years and Counting

By: Trinity Johnson, Editor-in-Chief

August 18, 2025

Dear Readers, 

As we usher in the Spring 2025 edition of The Xavier Herald, we are honored to commemorate not only the monumental milestone: the centennial celebration of our illustrious university, Xavier University of Louisiana, but also, we celebrate 100 years of student journalism. For 100 years, our student-run newspaper has been a steadfast pillar of information, expression, and community engagement, reflecting the evolving narratives of each generation. 

The Herald’s journey began in 1925, the same year Xavier started offering college-level courses. The founding edition, known as La Cigale – French for “The Cicada” – made its debut on April 1, 1925, with Paul Aubry serving as editor-in-chief. This title was reflective of the university’s rich cultural heritage and the cicada’s symbolism of voice and community. But in 1928, to more closely align with the university’s identity and mission, the newspaper underwent a significant transformation, adopting the name we all know so well today – The Xavier Herald. This change marked the beginning of a new era, reinforcing our commitment to serving as the authentic voice of Xavier’s student body. 

Throughout the decades, the Herald has been more than just a publication; it has been a mirror reflecting societal shifts, campus developments, and the dynamic spirit of Xavier’s community. It is the most prominent place for student voices. Students wrote passionate dialogues about the Civil Rights Movement, such as in the November 1959 edition, which highlighted injustices within American democracy – issues that remain relevant today. Continuing this tradition, The Herald has fostered critical discussions on social justice, providing a platform for students to voice their perspectives, challenge norms and inspire change. 

Our Centennial Year is not just a time for reflection but also a celebration of excellence. Recently, The Herald has garnered accolades, being recognized as the third-best college newspaper in the South for 2022 during the Southeast Journalism Conference. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our student journalists, who continue to uphold the legacy of those who came before us.  

As we celebrate this 100-year journey, we remain committed to the principles that have guided us: integrity, inclusivity, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The Herald will continue to evolve, embracing new digital platforms and technologies, but our core mission remains unchanged – to inform, engage, and empower the Xavier community. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to our readers, contributors, and alumni for being an integral part of this remarkable journey. Here’s to a century of journalism and storytelling and to many more editions ahead. 

With gratitude, 

Trinity Johnson

Editor-in-Chief  

The Xavier Herald