The Torch

Established in 1965, The Torch is the independent newspaper of Lane Community College.

The Torch is an award-winning, student-produced campus newspaper with an average circulation of over 1,500. It is an autonomous newspaper free from censorship by the college administration, faculty and student government.

Historically a weekly paper, The Torch currently has the capacity to publish monthly during fall, winter and spring terms, and publish weekly online during school year.

After ceasing printing operations and going online-only in 2019, then going nearly dormant in the wake of the pandemic, The Torch is now being brought back to life through increased student interest, diligent work on behalf of the students and faculty!

The Torch serves three purposes: 

1. It provides news and information of importance and interest to Lane students and staff.
2. It serves as a learning laboratory for students of journalism, graphic arts, photography, publishing and advertising.
3. It provides a communication channel for student commentary and debate. All Lane students may submit opinion essays and letters for publication in The Torch.

Opportunities with The Torch

There are stipend positions, for members of the editorial staff. Students can also get credit through the Cooperative Education program while working on The Torch. Internships are available for reporters, photographers, and graphic designers. Some positions are also available for Federal Work Study students.

Cooperative Education (Co-op) is an educational partnership between Lane Community College, the business community and Lane students. Co-op links classroom theory and hands-on skills with real job experience. Students earn credit and gain invaluable work experience as an intern in The Torch.

Advertising

Please contact us or view our Media Kit.

Awards

Student journalists at The Torch have won hundreds of awards over the years that the publication has been in print (just ask to see our archives)! More recently, they include:

2024-2025 Pacific Northwest Association of Professional Journalism Educators Awards

• Category: Comprehensive Coverage (Lane Board of Education)
  • Award: Honorable Mention
  • Awarded to: Kat Tabor, River Shepherd, The Torch
• Category: Personality Profile ("A Conversation with Rebecca I. Long")
  • Award: 1st Place
  • Awarded to: River Shepherd, The Torch
• Category: Best Portrait ("Whale Watching")
  • Award: 1st Place
  • Awarded to: Kat Tabor, The Torch