The staff spotlight series celebrates and elevates all the people who make the UI College of Education such a special place to work. This spotlight recognizes the critical contributions our staff members make to the College of Education community in support of our faculty and students.
For the last two and a half years, Renae Miller has served as human resources coordinator for the College of Education's Office of the Dean. However, her time with the University of Iowa began a decade ago, and she’s worn several hats during her tenure with the university.
Miller first joined the university in 2015, spending more than seven years in the UI Office of Internal Audit before transitioning into her current Human Resources (HR) role. Over an eight-year stretch, balancing her work and studies, she was able to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from the UI in Applied Studies with an emphasis in Human Relations. She also shares her time and talents with the UI Human Resources Development Committee and the College of Education’s SoWell Committee.
Alumna, staff member, and committee representative, Miller touches many parts of the university. Each experience helps inform her work supporting the staff, faculty, undergraduates, graduate assistants, and postdoctoral scholars who work for the college.
What is your favorite part about working in the College of Education?
The people! I love meeting new people who are just starting their positions in the college, and I also really enjoy working with and assisting current staff and faculty. Our HR team is fantastic. We laugh a lot and try to keep things fun.
What's your favorite memory as a Hawkeye?
When I decided to go back to school, I only had the time/capacity to take one class each semester. It took me eight years to complete my bachelor's degree and when I finally graduated, I decided to attend the graduation ceremony at Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Getting to walk across the stage, shake hands with President Wilson, and be celebrated for my achievement was truly special for me.
What are your hobbies, interests, or special talents? What would colleagues be surprised to know about you?
I enjoy going on backpacking trips with my husband and friends. I have backpacked in the states of Washington, Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Virginia, and even Iowa!
Where is your favorite place to eat in downtown Iowa City?
Basta
What is something on campus that you look forward to participating in or doing?
I really enjoy the times we get together, as a college, to celebrate and have fun together.
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I want to tour Europe someday. England, Germany, France, Italy, Greece – they all sound amazing!
What book, movie, or TV show has been keeping your attention lately?
I love The Great British Baking Show! Right now, I am watching the 16th season on Netflix. They only release one episode per week, so it is fun to anticipate the next episode and try to figure out who will win.
Visit the Celebrating College of Education staff page to nominate a colleague. Self nominations are also welcome.