In an effort to honor the African-American faculty and staff members from each of the nine schools affiliated with the America East, the conference is putting together a nine-part video series featuring one prominent African-American from each school. These features will highlight the connection each of these individuals have on campus as well as the surrounding communities.

Coming from a strong, political family, Fayneese Miller found her calling in social services through the actions of her parents. “I come from a family where you are expected to take your knowledge and try and do something good with it,” she says. This is the same foundation that Miller has brought to the University of Vermont and the students at the College of Education and Social Services. She wants her students to see that education is more than teaching.

Miller came to the University of Vermont after having a long tenure at Brown University. What makes her stand out now is not only her character and work, but also the relationship she has with her students. Outside of being dean, she also researches the psychological development within youth. In part of being associated with many groups, Miller has a very strong community presence, being the Chair on the Vermont State Board of Education.

As an individual who devotes her time and expertise in social services to students, Dean Fayneese Miller is an ideal representative from the University of Vermont for Black History Month.