On Nov. 22, 1946, a newspaper later to be known as Pipe Dream first hit the stands. Back then, we were called The Colonial News and we were the student voice for Triple Cities College. Before entering our eighth decade, we decided to take a look back to 1946 and at our first issue, where the paper’s founders ironed out a mission statement titled “Your Newspaper.” Much has changed in those 70 years, but as for Pipe Dream representing Binghamton University, we still stand by the words written decades ago.

The Colonial News’ editors stressed the importance of journalistic integrity. Representing all sides of controversial issues and keeping biases out of our reporting has always been a central focus of our coverage. While firm stances are regularly taken in our editorials, we have always striven to do so in the best interest of our student body — being careful not to isolate or divide those with countering perspectives.

The statement goes on to promise that we will “advocate vigorous participation in the extracurricular activities” at the University. This has not changed; we believe that our school functions at its best when its students actively participate in the extracurricular activities that shape our community. We remain committed to encouraging and supporting participation, from hearing student voices to recognizing new organizations to emphasizing voter participation.

The most important pillar addressed by our predecessors remains central to our identity today: a commitment to representing the student body. And with that undertaking, we document both achievements and failures within our community. We want to provide you not only with the news that highlights the brilliance, collaboration and vibrancy of BU, but also the news that is tougher to digest — all with the intention of keeping students and administrators honest.

We are a paper that operates independently of the interests of any particular group or faculty involvement, which allows us to freely report on all campus issues. Being the “free word on campus” is not a responsibility that we take lightly — and it never has been. We have not shied away from topics that cast doubt or raise questions about our administration, student groups or the student body itself. We believe that doing our diligence in these areas will create a stronger community.

Our history has by no means been flawless. As dedicated as we are to our mission, we cannot uphold it unless students are keeping us honest as well. Throughout our 70 years, students have been there to respond when they feel we have strayed from our values, and we have been made better because of it.

Being a university newspaper, we are unique position as student-journalists. Every year, we welcome a new group of writers, readers and students bringing new ideas, identities and priorities along with them. Still young in its own right, BU is working to establish its own traditions and identity. And “the free word,” whether it be under a masthead reading “The Colonial News” or “Pipe Dream,” is one that we are honored to contribute toward now, and hope to contribute toward for another 70 years.

Pipe Dream is your newspaper.