In four substantial issues a year, the University of Chicago Magazine feeds readers’ intellectual curiosities and intensifies their emotional connections to the university. We aspire to offer the highest quality content about faculty research, alumni achievements, and more. We see the magazine, too, as part of the permanent record of what happens at UChicago and strive to publish original stories of lasting interest alongside timely news and alumni voices. Our submitted issues are packed with stories of genuine interest to our audience, whose affiliations span some 15 schools and divisions. Each issue strikes a balance of serious stories and lighter fare, the university’s present and its past, visual and narrative storytelling, news that alumni need to know, and a few surprises. There’s something for almost every reader, as well as a great deal for our median readers, who are widely curious and deeply proud of their UChicago connection. The results can be measured by readers’ direct engagement and by survey responses. In 2023, we published 84 letters in print and/or online, showing broad, deep engagement. Our 2023 survey demonstrates the impact of our approach as well: 89 percent of respondents rated our stories excellent or good, and 92 percent said the same of our design. Asked if the magazine strengthens their connection to UChicago, 82 percent agreed or strongly agreed, while just 7 percent disagreed.
From the Judges
We were impressed by Chicago’s excellent, elevated writing and audience engagement. Story choices were fresh and creative, giving the magazine the air of a mass-market publication.
