January’s SAEM Staff Spotlight is Rita Miller, Associate Director of Housing and Residential Programs (HARP). Rita has been part of Millersville University for 43 years in a variety of positions, holding dual roles when necessary to augment other areas of the University. Her roles at the University include 16 years as the Director of International Student Support Services prior to the consolidation of all services under what is now International Programs and Services; five years as the Director of Physical and Mental Health Disabilities Services before the establishment of the Office of Learning Services; and ten years as the Principal Advisor for the Adult Continuing Education Undeclared Program (ACE Program) while it still existed as a degree admit program. She is now assigned to Housing and Residential Programs.
When asked what she enjoys most about being part of MU, Rita responded, “Witnessing and encouraging the growth and development of students as they move through their Millersville University experience. They may start as hopeful but uncertain and sometimes even timid, and blossom into confident young professionals. This is something that never gets old. I also love seeing adult students who are either returning to complete a degree or just starting a degree accomplish the ‘dream deferred’. That also never gets old.”
After 43 years at Millersville, Rita still looks forward to seeing what challenge the day will bring. “Just when you think you’ve seen it all,” she said, “something new happens even after all these years.”
“Rita has been a trusted teammate and colleague for all of us in the Department of Housing & Residential Programs,” said Scott Helfrich, Director of HARP. “She cares about the work as a student affairs professional and truly embodies what it means to demonstrate our EPPIIC values on a daily basis. I am proud to have her on our team as she always gives 110% to our department, the division, and the University.”
Thank you, Rita! We appreciate all that you do!
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