Two longtime leaders of Arkansas Press Women have been elected to top positions with the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW).
Debbie Miller, secretary of APW, has been elected president of NFPW, while Kristin Netterstrom Higgins, APW’s immediate past president, has been elected secretary of the national organization. Their elections highlight the growing influence of Arkansas women in journalism and communications on the national stage.
Miller, a longtime APW member and past president, is the third Arkansas Press Women member to serve as president of NFPW. Roberta Martin served in 1961-62 and Charlotte Schexnayder served as president in 1977-1979.
“I’m honored to serve as president of NFPW and continue the important work of supporting women in journalism and communications nationwide,” said Miller, who serves as an instructor of journalism, media, and English at NorthWest Arkansas Community College. “Arkansas has a strong tradition of leadership within this organization, and I’m excited to help build on that legacy.”
Netterstrom Higgins, who has spent her career amplifying stories that matter to Arkansas communities, said her new role will allow her to bring Arkansas perspectives to the national conversation.
“It’s an honor to have a role in NFPW’s history and future,” said Netterstrom Higgins, who serves as a program associate and leader of the Extension Public Policy Center at the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. She added that she looks forward to once again working closely with Miller, who hired her out of college in 2003 to cover Benton County for The Morning News of Northwest Arkansas.
APW President Angie Faller said the recognition is well-deserved.
“We are incredibly proud of Debbie and Kristin,” Faller said. “They are both passionate, hard-working leaders who serve as great role models for women communicators around the country. Their leadership, both here in Arkansas and on the national level, reflects the strength, professionalism, and dedication of Arkansas Press Women.”
Founded in 1949, Arkansas Press Women has fostered generations of journalists, writers, educators, and communicators. As part of NFPW, the organization provides professional development, recognition of excellence, and a supportive community for women in media and communication across the country.