University Press of Mississippi reps discuss publishing projects with MSU scholars
University Press of Mississippi Director Craig W. Gill, from left, along with UPM staff members Courtney McCreary and Lisa McMurtray, talked with MSU faculty, staff and students Tuesday [Feb. 26] about the process of scholarly publishing, from manuscript acquisition through marketing a finished book. PHOTO: Megan Bean | Public Affairs
Mississippi State faculty, staff and students learned about the state’s largest publisher and only not-for-profit press during a campus presentation by University Press of Mississippi representatives last Tuesday [Feb. 26].
UPM Director Craig W. Gill was at MSU’s Mitchell Memorial Library to visit with those interested in scholarly publishing and to discuss the publication process from manuscript acquisition through marketing a finished book. Courtney McCreary, publicity and promotions manager, as well as Lisa McMurtray, editorial assistant, also were on hand to talk with the MSU community and answer questions.
“We acquire, edit, distribute, and promote more than 80 new books every year,” Gill said. “Over the years, the press has published more than 2,000 titles and distributed more than 2.8 million copies worldwide, each with the Mississippi imprint.”
Founded in 1970, the University Press of Mississippi is supported by the state’s eight public universities and is housed with the Institutions of Higher Learning in Jackson. The press focuses on nonfiction and encompasses a wide range of scholarly and trade works.
Deborah Lee, professor and associate dean of MSU Libraries, said the session provided important information about how research goes from being a research project to becoming part of the scholarly record through publication at a university press.
“As a librarian, I am interested in both my own research projects and in helping MSU faculty and students succeed in their research,” she said.
Gill said the full-service publisher has particular interest in African American studies and all aspects of popular culture. He offered tips on pitching book projects, as well as resources for those considering transforming a dissertation into a book. He asks anyone seeking more information to visit www.upress.state.ms.us. The website includes a staff listing for those who want additional discussion with UPM staff members.
MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.
Allison Matthews | Public Affairs
