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Columns Magazine
Frequently Asked Questions

When did Columns start publication ... what's its history?

Columns was started in 1908 as the Washington Alumnus. Twice in the years since then, the magazine ceased publication entirely—during World War I and in the mid-1930s—only to be revived each time. For most of these years it was published by the UW Alumni Association and sent only to UWAA members. In 1989 the magazine was redesigned, its circulation expanded to cover all UW alumni, and the name changed to Columns (not to be confused with the campus humor magazine of that name formerly published by the ASUW through the School of Communications, a periodical of often questionable taste that died out in the late 1950s).

I like reading Columns, but I'd rather view it online. How do I go green and stop receiving it by mail?

The UW Alumni Association strives to conserve resources and reduce costs. If you'd like to update your subscription preferences for receiving Columns, please use our Columns preferences form.

If you choose to opt-out of the print edition of Columns, we'll let you know by e-mail each time a new issue becomes available online. You'll never miss an issue (and it won't get buried under that stack of papers).

I'm a graduate (or UWAA member) but I don't receive the magazine at home. How do I get on your list to receive it by mail?

Use our Columns preferences form to let us know your mailing address that you'd like to receive it by mail. Sometimes we don't have the correct address for our alumni. Due to budgetary contraints we don't necessarily include all alumni and members in the print mailing. But we're happy to send add you to the mailing list upon request. As noted, all issues are available online 24/7 on our site.

I'm not a UW graduate but I'm interested in getting Columns.

Most graduates from UW and UWAA members will automatically receive the print edition of Columns magazine. So if you did not attend or graduate from UW and want to receive by mail, you can join the UWAA. The online versions are free to everyone though. Browse the site and sign up for Columns e-mails that have highlights of the latest issue, special announcements and more.

When is Columns published?

It is published four times a year: March 1st, June 1st, September 1st and December 1st. Due to its mail status, it may arrive a few days before or after that date.

How do I advertise my business in the magazine?

Follow this link to our advertising rate card and information.

What's the current circulation?

At present, circulation per issue is about 220,000 copies.

Who publishes Columns?

The magazine is co-published by the University of Washington and the UW Alumni Association. The magazine's publisher is the Assistant Vice President for Alumni Relations/Executive Director of the Alumni Association.

Does Columns represent the official policies of the University of Washington?

Opinions expressed are those of the signed contributors or the editors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the University of Washington. The magazine does not endorse, directly or by implication, any products or services advertised except those sponsored directly by the UW Alumni Association.