Gannett buys Florida State University paper

The Tallahassee Democrat, whose parent company is Gannett, has bought the twice-weekly newspaper that serves Florida State University.

The Tallahassee Democrat, whose parent company is Gannett, has bought the twice-weekly newspaper that serves Florida State University. Media observers say this is the first time that a major newspaper chain has purchased an independent, privately owned publication that is geared toward students, faculty and administrators. The Flambeau has been independent since 1971, merged with FSView in 1998, and the publication now has a circulation of about 25,000 readers during the academic year. FSView & Florida Flambeau is unlike most college newspapers, which are generally nonprofit or affiliated with a university journalism school. Robert Parker, former publisher and owner of FSView & Florida Flambeau, said Gannett approached him about the sale. Patrick Dorsey, president and publisher of the Democrat, said FSView & Florida Flambeau will remain student-run, and editorial content will be independent from the Democrat’s. “They do a great job covering their audience — covering university life,” Dorsey said. “We can provide stability that helps ensure their future.” Dorsey said The Democrat is planning to provide professional mentoring to the student journalists. Florida State does not have an undergraduate journalism program.