Donor Impact: A Legacy Gift Supports the Carolyn Wynn Smalley Distinguished Chair of Georgia Studies
A transformative $1.2 million gift from the estate of Carolyn Wynn Smalley to the Middle Georgia State University (MGA) Foundation established the Carolyn Wynn Smalley Distinguished Chair of Georgia Studies—a landmark investment in the University’s commitment to regional scholarship. Housed within MGA’s School of Arts and Letters, this endowed professorship focuses on Georgia-specific topics spanning history, literature, culture, geography, and structural design.
MGA is proud to announce that Dr. Monica Miller, Associate Professor of English, has been appointed as the inaugural Distinguished Chair. Approved by the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents, this prestigious appointment honors Dr. Miller’s outstanding contributions to teaching, scholarship, and the exploration of Georgia’s rich cultural heritage.
“I’m honored by this opportunity,” Dr. Miller said. “This role allows me to develop courses and events that celebrate Georgia writers, artists, and traditions—and to bring forward voices that reflect the depth and diversity of our state.” What Is a Distinguished Chair?
An endowed chair or professorship is among the highest honors a university can bestow on a faculty member. Funded by gifts from visionary benefactors like the Carolyn Wynn Smalley estate, these positions provide ongoing support for the recipient’s salary, research, and academic initiatives, ensuring a legacy of excellence for generations to come.
Since joining MGA in 2017, Dr. Miller has been a vital part of the University community. Her unwavering commitment over the past six years has supported both the School of Arts and Letters and broader University initiatives. She embodies the spirit of engaged scholarship, creative inquiry, and service.
An accomplished scholar, Dr. Miller is the author of Being Ugly: Southern Women Writers and Social Rebellion and co-author of Dear Regina: Flannery O’Connor’s Letters from Iowa. Her research explores the complex intersections of Southern identity, gender, literature, and social transformation—making her an ideal steward of this Georgia-centered academic vision.
Inspiration from Georgia’s Trailblazing Women
Dr. Miller draws special inspiration from Georgia’s long tradition of visionary women who challenged convention and sparked change.
“Georgia has produced generations of women who defied the status quo and shaped the world around them,” she said. “I want our students to learn from that legacy and understand how their own voices can contribute to it.”
A Vision for the Future of Georgia Studies at MGA
As the Carolyn Wynn Smalley Distinguished Chair, Dr. Miller is committed to building MGA into a recognized hub for Georgia Studies. Her vision includes:
- Designing new Georgia-focused courses, including a forthcoming class on Georgia writers.
- Hosting public events that celebrate the state’s cultural and literary richness.
- Creating student research opportunities connected to Georgia’s identity and history.
- Continuing and expanding her own scholarly work on Georgia writers.
“I’m proud to be part of a university that empowers students to achieve more than they ever imagined,” Dr. Miller said. “The support of donors and community members will be crucial in bringing the Distinguished Chair’s mission to life— through investment, visibility, and participation in our programs.”
A Legacy That Builds the Future
Dr. Miller emphasizes that every gift—large or small—helps create life-changing opportunities for students and scholars alike.
“Your generosity enables us to launch research initiatives and academic programs that inspire students to reach goals they may have once thought impossible.”
MGA is profoundly grateful to the Carolyn Wynn Smalley estate for this visionary gift. Their generosity not only elevates the stature of our School of Arts and Letters, but also ensures that Georgia’s stories, voices, and legacies will continue to be studied, honored, and shared for generations to come.