Joan Miller

Undergraduate Studies Adviser and DUS Programs Coordinator, College of Education
Hometown: 
Pittsburgh, PA
Education: 
Pennsylvania State University
Penn Stater since: 
1974 – I earned my B.S in Education in 1978 and my Masters in Student Affairs in 2013!

“Everyone is gifted; they simply open their presents at different times and places.” (Unknown author) I believe in discovering and celebrating the talents that all individuals have. It is a wonderful opportunity to help students as they explore their interests and abilities while unpacking their gifts.

My favorite place I have traveled is Thailand. There are so many beautiful temples to see and the people are amazingly friendly. I love the business of Bangkok and the beaches of Phuket. My favorite activity in Thailand was visiting an elephant rehabilitation center where I was able to feed and bathe elephants. It was humbling to interact with such strong and majestic creatures.

My Bucket List consists of traveling to many places. In the near future I hope to visit Normandy, France and I also have a strong desire to see many sites in South America with Machu Picchu at the top of the list.

I am afraid of the dark. I have been ever since I was little. I still sleep with a light on if I am home alone.

I like to collect recipes and sometimes I even attempt to use them.

In my spare time, I love watching movies, TV dramas and the Voice! I am also trying to be better about exercising several days a week though to make up for all the couch time.

When it comes to sports, I really enjoy watching almost all of them. My favorite teams are the Nittany Lions, and I have been obsessed with Pittsburgh Pirates baseball since I was a little girl.

If I could only listen to one band the rest of my life it would be Lady Gaga. I am infatuated with her and have seen her in concert five times!

My favorite things to eat are most pasta dishes with meatballs and Greek salads with grilled chicken and lots of pepperoncini.

I am most proud of raising two wonderful sons who are contributing to society by serving in the Coast Guard and teaching physical education and nutrition to children in Singapore.


Academic Adviser Joan Miller