Since 1922, The Chanticleer has provided community news to the students, faculty and staff of Averett.

Its first 32-page issue included references to the Philomathean and Mnemosynean literary societies, poetry and a discussion of the university landscape 63 years into Averett's history.

The first issue was dedicated to Miss Nelson Hackett, Art Director: "To Miss Nelson Hackett, our Director of Art, who has put into visible form the essence of our would-be wit and wisdom, we, the Staff of Chanticleer, with appreciation and affectionate esteem, do dedicate this issue.

"[1]In addition to continued print circulation, CNM began publishing issues online with its October 2010.

The Chanticleer has undergone numerous redesigns during its 89-year run including newspaper formats and an oversized magazine layout.