UA ALUMNA RETURNS TO THE UNIVERSITY AS THE MANAGING EDITOR FOR THE ARKANSAS ALUMNI MAGAZINE

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Gina King, director of public relations for the Charlotte, N.C. Visitors and Convention Bureau and a 1983 graduate of the University of Arkansas, has returned to her alma mater to become the managing editor for the Arkansas Alumni Magazine, effective Monday, July 12.

"When I interviewed Gina I was impressed by her energy, enthusiasm and qualifications. I became even more excited upon learning she is an alumna," said Mike Macechko, director of the Arkansas Alumni Association.

"Although one can learn a great deal about the University, there is nothing like having lived the Arkansas experience," Macechko added. "Gina has walked where our alumni have walked, so she will be able to convey those special University insights in a way that others can feel. It is obvious that she brings a special relationship to the editorship."

King said, "I am excited about returning to the University of Arkansas and look forward to the challenges of editing the Arkansas Alumni Magazine. This magazine is such a vital tool for the UA in that it not only keeps our alumni in touch with the University, but it also serves as a stage to showcase the important research that occurs here."

Selection of King as managing editor culminates a four-month search conducted by University Relations, the office through which King will be employed.

"Ms. King is a tremendous addition to our staff," said Roger Williams, associate vice-chancellor for University Relations. "Her selection was based on her impressive editorial, public relations and reporting experience, her performance on our writing test, as well as her obvious enthusiasm and support for the University."

King brings to the managing editor position experience of having planned and implemented the media relations program for the Charlotte Convention and Visitors Bureau. King also spent nearly a year as the researcher and writer for "The History of Nucor Steel Charlotte, N.C." which chronicled the history of America’s second largest steel mill corporation.

Prior to her position in Charlotte, King was a reporter for The Morning News of Northwest Arkansas from 1988 to 1995. Prior to her position there, she was a reporter and public information specialist for the U.S. Army.

She graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism.

Her position as managing editor will encompass managing and editing Arkansas for quarterly publication as well as exploring additional on-line innovations to reach both alumni and campus audiences.

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