In Honor of Jane Miller '76

New center, surprise accolade celebrate longtime Trustee and Board Chair

Prospective students and their families now have an incredible first impression of Mary Baldwin University. The newly renovated Jane Miller Welcome Center is located in the historic center of campus, the Administration Building, first constructed in 1844. Radiating across the refreshed space are dozens of large-scale photos, each capturing an inspirational moment along the MBU student journey.

President Pamela R. Fox called the center’s recent dedication to alumna, generous supporter, and long-serving Trustee Jane Miller ’76 a fitting tribute.

“I believe Jane truly transmits those qualities Mary Julia Baldwin imprinted on our institutional soul,” she said. At an October ceremony, Fox channeled admiration from university leadership and Trustees for Miller’s impeccable judgment, unshakeable trustworthiness, and genuine empathy.

Miller came to Mary Baldwin as a national merit scholar at the young age of 16, and found a place where her intellect and compassion took flight. She followed her bachelor’s degree in English and history with a juris doctor from the University of Virginia Law School, and went on to a successful career in tax law and investment banking.

Returning to her alma mater thousands of volunteer hours, Miller served as a Trustee for 17 years, including as chair during a critical time in the university’s evolution. She retired in April 2020, and the October dedication was a long-awaited celebration of her devoted service.

Toward the ceremony’s end, Fox and the MBU faculty had orchestrated an additional surprise: Miller was to receive the honorary doctorate of humane letters from the university, one of its highest academic honors reserved for exceptional individuals. On cue Interim Provost Tynisha Willingham and Vice President of Student Engagement Ernest Jeffries came into view wearing full academic regalia and helped Miller don her new doctoral robes.

“Thank you, Jane, for being my friend, partner, and guiding mentor,” Fox said. Her words echo the sentiment of gratitude felt across the entire university community.