Dr. Aimee Miller-Ott once sat in the classrooms of Fell Hall as an undergraduate communication major. But as of August 16, 2023, she’ll now sit in the most important office on the building’s fourth floor—and assume the role of interim director in the top-ranked School of Communication at Illinois State University.
From student to director, Miller-Ott is well positioned to lead after long-time director Dr. Stephen Hunt announced his decision to step down earlier this year.
“I’ll admit it’s a little overwhelming to take on a role of this magnitude, but I’m also really proud,” said Miller-Ott. “Never once did I imagine as an undergrad that I would one day lead the School of Communication. It’ll be a true honor. And honestly, a full-circle moment.”
Miller-Ott joined the faculty in the School of Communication in 2014, after completing a Ph.D. at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and serving as an assistant professor at the University of Hartford in Connecticut.
“When I applied for the faculty position, my driving force was wanting to be a part of the School of Communication’s outstanding reputation,” said Miller-Ott. “I had peers in my Ph.D. program who went through the school’s master’s program, and it was clear how well prepared they were.”
In fall 2017, Miller-Ott achieved tenure and was promoted to associate professor. The following year, she received the University’s highest teaching honor and was awarded the Outstanding University Teacher Award for a tenured professor.
Well known for her expertise in interpersonal and family communication, Miller-Ott became a full professor in fall 2021 and has received many more accolades for her teaching. Most recently, she was presented with the 2022 Trifecta Award in the School of Communication, recognizing her exemplary commitment and excellence in teaching, research, and service.
“The School of Communication is fortunate to have the leadership of Dr. Aimee Miller-Ott,” said Dr. Stephen Hunt, former director of the school. “She is a tremendous scholar and colleague.”
Miller-Ott has served as graduate coordinator for the School of Communication since summer 2019 under Dr. Hunt’s leadership.
“As graduate coordinator, she has demonstrated outstanding skills related to budgeting, alumni engagement, assessment, and personnel management,” added Hunt. “These skills will serve her well as she transitions to interim director of the School of Communication.”
Miller-Ott has agreed to serve the school in an interim capacity through June 30, 2024. A national search will be conducted this 2023-2024 academic year.
“A year is a long time though,” said Miller-Ott. “I’m looking forward to seeing what this position will bring.”
The administration has always been in the back of Miller-Ott’s mind as a possible path to pursue.
“I’m most looking forward to learning the inner workings of the school—and the University as a whole,” she said. “My goals are to learn, support, and lead. That’s what I’m here for this year.”
Miller-Ott becomes just the second woman to lead the school, with the only other being Dr. Catherine Konsky, who served as department chair from 1992 – 2001.
“I’m excited to offer a new perspective and put my own signature stamp on things,” said Miller-Ott. “I want to be a positive influence, set a strong example for our students, and serve as a role model for female leadership across campus.”
“We have a lot going on right now,” she said. “We have program review approaching, new faculty searches to conduct, an ongoing renovation in the Vidette building, tenure reviews, and so much more. It’s a lot to manage, but I’m up for the challenge.”
With the start of the fall 2023 semester just days away, the School of Communication is committed to continue demonstrating excellence campus-wide.
“We’re in great shape thanks to Dr. Hunt’s leadership. I’m stepping into a best-case scenario thanks to his tenure in the role. He’s built incredible relationships and partnerships not just on campus, but in our community, too. Steve is leaving me with big shoes to fill, but I’m grateful for the work he’s done.”
While Miller-Ott is humbled to step into the director role, this Redbird has the professional acumen to build upon the past successes of the school.
