Joel Gambill, chair of Journalism and Printing, and longtime friend and colleague Roy Ockert, editor of the Jonesboro Sun.

Jonesboro Sun Editor Roy Ockert shared some observations and advice with journalism students on Jan. 16.

Ockert, a Journalism alumnus and former instructor, talked to students from three classes: Editorial, Business and Opinion Writing, Public Relations Practicum and Public Affairs Reporting.

Ockert told students that the best editorials may challenge and criticize, but they remain constructive and positive.

He also advised students to stay connected with their community and be aware of the news. The closer the writer is to the news, the better the editorial, he said.