Leaving a Legacy: Celebrating Teri Miller
Teri Miller embodies what it means to give back. A proud Middle Georgia State University alumna, Chair of the Department of Respiratory Therapy, and national leader in her field, Teri has dedicated more than 22 years to serving MGA and its students. Her recent appointment as Vice President of Internal Affairs for the American Association for Respiratory Care reflects the depth of her leadership and the impact of an MGA education.
Teri’s connection to MGA spans generations, with three in her family calling MGA their alma mater. Being both an alumna and a faculty member is a source of deep pride for her, one rooted in gratitude for the mentors who shaped her path. Among them, her grandmother, Reba M. Woods, stands out as a defining influence, offering encouragement, guidance and support that inspired Teri’s lifelong commitment to investing in others.
“It is important for us to give our students things they can reflect on with pride and that help them build a future forward,” Teri shared. That belief drives her advocacy for students and her passion for ensuring they know their work matters.
A champion for access and opportunity, Teri has helped establish and support several scholarships for respiratory therapy students, including the Retired Therapy Faculty & Staff Endowed Scholarship. This fund honors those who build the program’s foundation and ensures future students receive the support they need to succeed. “I can look at our alumni and feel proud knowing I helped develop professionals providing critical care to patients,” she said.
Teri believes giving is not about the size of the gift, it’s about participation and commitment. She encourages others to take that first step, reminding them that collective generosity can change lives. Her story is a powerful reminder that when we invest in students, we shape futures and leave a legacy that lasts far beyond ourselves.
Thank you, Teri, for your unwavering dedication to Middle Georgia State University and for inspiring others to give with purpose.