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EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH: International Studies Program Coordinator Jessica Miller

Jessica Miller
Jessica Miller, International Studies Program

Congratulations to August's Employee of the Month, International Studies Program Coordinator Jessica Miller!

Miller was selected and nominated by fellow employees for always putting students first and for providing quality, life-changing study abroad experiences to students in the International Studies Program.

“It’s nice to get recognized with an award,” said Miller. “I eat, breathe and sleep my job – it’s my passion. The students often let me know how much they appreciate their trips abroad, but it’s great to be acknowledged by the College for being the best we can be in our department.”

Miller began working part-time in the Office of International Studies in 2011 when she was a student at Southwest before she became a full-time coordinator. She has five years of program experience and reports to Dean of Humanities, Social Sciences and Mathematics Dr. LaDonna Young. In her position, Miller is responsible for recruiting students for the program and helping plan trips for the faculty.

Nominators said Miller is a hard-working employee with a welcoming spirit who gives tirelessly to students, faculty and staff.  This year alone, Miller accumulated nearly 20,000 frequent flyer miles to expand study abroad programs to the continents of Africa and South America, as well as Rome and Denmark. This is no small feat for someone who is also enrolled in graduate school at the University of Memphis.

One nominator cited an example of Miller’s outstanding customer service to students: “After learning May study abroad trips conflicted with students' opportunity to participate in commencement, Jessica made the courageous decision to shift European trips to spring break. This decision now gives students the best of both worlds - a life-changing study abroad experience and their moment to walk across the stage at commencement. Our study broad program is one of the crown jewels of the college and one of the most robust programs across the state in part because of Jessica's leadership, keen financial oversight, and the dynamic team of faculty and staff she has nurtured and created.”

Do you know a colleague who is an outstanding employee?

Nominating them is easy. All full and part-time staff and administrative employees who have been employed at least six months are eligible. The achievements for which the employee is being recognized must have been accomplished within the last 60 days. Learn more about eligibility requirements and complete an Employee of the Month nomination form.

Each nominee is reviewed by a committee representing the Professional Administrative Staff Organization (PASO) and Support Staff Organization (SSO), in conjunction with the Department of Human Resources. Award winners receive free breakfast or lunch for a week from The Taste at Southwest, a reserved parking space of choice on his/her main campus for an entire calendar month (parking restrictions may apply) and are featured in the Southwest Scoop.

Special thanks to this month’s nominators for helping the College recognize the achievements of deserving employees.

Congratulations, Jessica!