Curb is a lifestyle magazine produced annually by 23 University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism and Mass Communication that celebrated its 21st year in 2022. Throughout a challenging semester, students work together in a capstone course. With the opportunity for hands-on publishing experience, the class produces and distributes a high-quality publication to 10,000 readers around the state.
Curb has been published once a year since Fall 2002. Each year’s class is given the chance to remake the magazine with its own theme, though the name Curb remains the same. In its past, Curb has been a women’s, men’s, young professionals’ and arts magazine, among others. In 2022, the Curb staff developed “Pulse,” which dug into what drives the heart that beats and propels us forward, exploring the passions, hardships and discoveries that shape the people of Wisconsin. Through their stories, this year’s Curb staff explored the ways so many Wisconsinites have experienced both universal and deeply personal obstacles, as well as how they stayed close to one another, even during a time when wasn’t physically possible. (Check out the print edition here.)
As a course in the school of Journalism and Mass Communication, Curb takes an integrated, in-depth approach to magazine management, writing, editing and design. It covers the magazine industry from both the editorial and business ends, bringing together journalism and strategic communication students. From concept creation and story development, to advertising and fundraising sales, to page layouts and web design – Curb is created by students from beginning to end. Assistant Professor Katy Culver served as Curb publisher and mentor from the course’s inception through 2014; instructor Stacy Forster has served as publisher from 2014 to present.
Curb doesn’t stop with the print edition. Over time, Curb has offered students the chance to experiment with new media. The online version of Curb is an extension of the magazine, providing readers with in-depth looks at their favorite stories, exclusive video content, and additional stories and visual content. The Curb Twitter, Facebook and Instagram feeds complement the magazine’s website and print edition, actively engaging and connecting with curious Wisconsinites.