Lisa Miller, a familiar figure at the University of Louisiana Monroe, has been named Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management and University Relations. The UL System Board of Supervisors approved Miller’s appointment on Feb. 25, 2021.
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With energy and insight, Miller returned to ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥ in February, joining President Ron Berry’s leadership team.
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In a letter to the campus announcing Miller's appointment, Berry stated, "As most of you know, Lisa has significant experience in recruitment and admissions and university relations. Most importantly, she has a true passion and commitment to our region, students, and university."
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When Berry approached her about leading the Office of Enrollment Management – including Recruiting, Admissions, and Financial Aid – and University Relations – all external and internal communications – Miller embraced the opportunity to return to the university.
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After 16 years with ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥, Miller retired in May 2019 as Chief Communications Officer. In August 2019, she joined St. Frederick High School as the guidance counselor.
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"A couple of years ago, an article was written about me at the time of my retirement announcement. It ended with my comment, 'I think beauty exists in life's surprises.' When President Berry reached out to me about the opportunity to return to the bayou, to say I was surprised would be an understatement," said Miller.
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Miller said while she cherishes her time at St. Frederick's, she "could not ignore the compelling urge to be a part of President Berry's team."
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"During my 16 previous years at ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥, it was evident to me that Dr. Berry possessed a passion for transforming students' lives and a genuine love for the university. These, combined with a vision and focused, strategic work, will yield success. No matter the challenges, I am honored to be a part of this journey," she said.
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"Enrollment is the lifeblood of the university, and I fully understand the importance of this role I have been given. I vow to learn from yesterday, work diligently every day, and prepare for a better tomorrow. Together we will make a difference," Miller said.
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About Lisa Miller
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Miller is a ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥ alumna, where she earned a B.A. in Elementary Education, Master of Education – Counseling, and +30 Teacher Certification – Administration and Supervision.
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As the Director of Recruitment and Admissions, Miller proved high school students would choose ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥ over other universities if they were skillfully and continuously recruited.
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During this time, Miller established multiple recruitment initiatives. As a result, the freshman class ACT increased to an average score of 23, TOPS scholarships grew from 30 to 80 percent, and the total number of students increased 10 percent.
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Miller was invited to present the successful recruiting strategies to the Louisiana Board of Regents and at national conferences.
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In 2007, Miller was tasked with ensuring freshmen would remain at ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥ and graduate. As Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, Miller steadied enrollment to more than 9,000 students for a decade. ÃÛ½ÛÖ±²¥ experienced all-time-high retention and graduation rates. Miller said these accomplishments resulted from combining data-driven decisions with relationship-building strategies.Ìý
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She oversaw recruitment, admissions, scholarships, financial aid, Student Success Center, Student Career Center and the Registrar's Office.
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In 2016, Miller was named Chief Communications Officer and shifted her focus to marketing the university by utilizing the data-driven strategies which proved effective in enrollment management. Combining strategy with stakeholder feedback, Miller led the Office of Marketing and Communications team to engage larger, more diverse audiences through social media and targeted publications. Miller designed and established multiple special events for both image building and fundraising.