FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Michelle Johnson, assistant director of development research at the University of Arkansas, was elected president of the Arkansas chapter of the Association of Professional Researchers for Advancement (APRA) at the group’s annual meeting June 20 in Russellville.

APRA is the premier international organization for fund raisers who specialize in research and information management. APRA is committed to providing leading edge educational and networking opportunities to advancement research professionals; establishing and promoting high professional standards and ethical guidelines; and providing advocacy and a representative voice for the profession. APRA represents over 2,000 development professionals around the world who are dedicated to meeting the data and information needs of the nonprofit community.

Johnson holds a B.A. in economics from Bethany College, a private liberal arts college in Lindsborg, Kan. She was previously employed as a human resources compensation analyst for 10 years, including seven years as such in the University of Arkansas human resources department. She became assistant director of development research for University Development in November 2000. In that position, she has participated in the presentation of several educational sessions in the field of prospect research for the Division of University Advancement.

Johnson begins her term as president on July 1, 2003.

Johnson said, "I am honored to have been elected president of the Arkansas chapter of APRA and excited about the serving the organization during the upcoming year. APRA seeks to empower the nonprofit community by serving and educating fund-raising professionals interested in advancement research. In this position, I am looking forward to supporting the achievement of this mission and further promoting the development research profession in the state of Arkansas."