About The Free Press

The Free Press is the official student newspaper of the University of Southern Maine. Produced by USM students for the USM community, we cover the people, issues, ideas, and events shaping life across the university’s campuses and beyond.

Our mission is to be a trusted source of news, commentary, and storytelling for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. We are committed to timely, accurate, and thoughtful reporting that reflects the breadth of experiences within the University of Southern Maine community.

As a student-run publication, The Free Press serves as both a newsroom and a learning space. Our staff of writers, editors, photographers, designers, and contributors work together to report on campus news, student life, arts and culture, athletics, local issues, and the conversations that matter most to USM. We also aim to provide a forum for the free exchange of ideas in a university community defined by diverse viewpoints, goals, and experiences.

The Free Press has been a part of USM campus life for decades, with a history dating back to the early 1970s. Today, we continue that tradition through our print publication and digital coverage, connecting readers across the Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston-Auburn communities.

Whether you are looking to stay informed, pitch a story, share your perspective, advertise with us, or join our staff, The Free Press is here to amplify student voices and document the life of the university as it happens.