By Staff Writer: Kayla Reichenbach
Set the scene: It’s 1934. The country is still reeling from the Great Depression, and trust in institutions is shaky. That year, the U.S. government passes the Communications Act, creating the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to regulate how news is delivered through radio, a growing force in American life. For the first time, a sitting president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, uses that radio access to speak directly to the people. His “Fireside Chats,” calm and conversational, change the way Americans connect to leadership and to news itself.
It’s a pivotal year for journalism. And in Eastern New Mexico, something important is taking root.
The New Mexico Legislature approves the creation of a new teacher-training school, Eastern New Mexico Normal School, later referred to as Eastern New Mexico Junior College and eventually Eastern New Mexico University. The campus hasn’t even opened its doors yet, but a student newspaper is already in motion. The Chase is founded in 1934, making it one of the oldest student-run papers in the state. Back then, the paper likely helped build campus identity and keep future students and faculty informed about the school that was coming.
Nearly a century later, that same mission still beats at the heart of The Chase.
We cover student life, local issues and stories that matter to us. But more than that, we write with freedom. Writers choose their own topics, bringing passion, creativity and purpose to every piece. We question, reflect and dig deeper.
It’s not just about deadlines and headlines. It’s about making people care. Writing for The Chase has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my time at ENMU. I’ve grown as a writer, learned how to tell stories that matter to me, and found my voice. If you’re looking for a place to grow, connect and be heard, you should write for The Chase too.