In February 1859, Trustee Judge Frederick Watts contacted Pugh and offered him the position of president at the Farmers' High School, as well as a stipend for purchasing laboratory equipment to bring back from Europe. Pugh's appointment officially began in February 1860 during the school's second year, however he assumed most duties as president in October 1859.
Pugh was appointed president of the Farmers' High School in February 1859 by Judge Frederick Watts, who also offered him a grant to purchase laboratory equipment from Europe. Pugh took up his role officially in February 1860, but began handling most duties as president in October 1859.