Michelle Pugh returns as yearbook editor-in-chief

SEARCY, ARK. (10/31/2012)(readMedia)-- Michelle Makool Pugh, a graduate student, recently began her second year as editor-in-chief of the Harding University Petit Jean yearbook during the 2012-13 school year.

Pugh was raised in Wynne, Ark., and is the daughter of local business owners Tim and Wanda Makool.

As a student at Wynne High School, she worked on the yearbook staff for four years, and was named editor her senior year. The Arkansas Scholastic Press Association awarded her the title Yearbook Editor of the Year in 2009 for her work on the school's yearbook called The Stinger.

"My experience working on the Wynne High School Stinger yearbook really helped prepare me for this position and I enjoy being able to help other students become passionate about working on an important publication that records the history of this year," Pugh said.

As editor-in-chief, Pugh is responsible for creating the theme and overall vision for the 2012-13 yearbook. She manages a staff of 16 students and aids them in creating page layouts and uncovering story ideas.

"I am really excited and honored to be able to serve as the Petit Jean editor-in-chief for the second year," Pugh said. "Being part of Student Publications has taught me so many valuable skills that I know I will be able to use when I begin my profession."

Most recently, she began pursuing a Master in Business Administration after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in public relations May 2012.

Harding is the largest private university in Arkansas with 6,815 students and attracts more National Merit Scholars than any other private university in the state. Harding also maintains campuses in Australia, Chile, England, France, Greece, Italy and Zambia. For more information visit www.harding.edu.

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