News Desert U is the compelling story of six different colleges and universities pioneering new ways to address the rise of news deserts in cities, suburbs, and rural areas. A win-win for students and for the communities they are covering. Teri Finneman and Pamela E. Walck have created an insightful and inspiring read for anyone who cares about the future of local news.

Penelope Muse Abernathy, author of Saving Community Journalism, USA

News Desert U serves as a useful handbook for the increasing numbers of university professors and staff who are looking for ways their students might help address the growing gaps in local news across the United States. The authors provide a wide range of examples that highlight the promise of these programs as well as the hard work, long hours, and unexpected challenges. To tell these stories, the authors spent time with professional journalists, faculty and staff, students, and the residents of communities being covered by student newsrooms. While the book provides practical information, it tells the stories of each community in a narrative style that keeps the reader engaged and turning pages. I look forward to sharing this book with the administrators at my own school.

Andrew Conte, Managing Director in Center for Media Innovation, Point Park University, USA, and Author of Death of the Daily News

News Desert U is a timely reminder that local journalism is civic infrastructure – and rebuilding it takes more than good intentions. With clear-eyed case studies of university-led efforts across the country, Finneman and Walck show how trust is earned, what it takes to build durable local news organizations over time, and how communities benefit.

Tristan Loper, Head of National Programs, The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, USA