AWARDS

Shannon Miller was presented with the Jack E. Cermak Undergraduate Advising Award at the Provost’s 2025 Celebrate! Colorado State awards ceremony.

“When I first learned JJ (Jen Johnson) had nominated me, I was honored to be considered, but I thought there was no way I’d win such a significant award,” said Miller. “When I received the email about the award, I had to read it several times before I believed it.

Miller received several letters of support, including from current students and recently graduated students she advised. 

• “She made me feel valued and capable, reassuring me that I belonged in this field.” – Gabriella Lockey, civil engineering major
• “She’s been the most positively influential person I’ve encountered during my time here; providing reassurance and confidence whenever I’ve needed it.” – Branch DeMersseman, civil engineering major
• “Her support was instrumental in helping me achieve my dreams, and today, I’m proud to be a transportation engineer in Fort Collins, a position I never could have reached without her guidance.” – Shannon Zurn, civil engineering alumnus

Miller is the Manager of Undergraduate Programs for the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering where she’s worked for six years.

“This validates I am here for a reason and I am able to impact students in a positive way,” said Miller. “My daughter is proud of me and this shows her you can be recognized for working hard and persevering.”

There is no question Shannon loves the department and her students. She also expressed gratitude to all of the “incredibly cool” staff and faculty she works with. She especially appreciates the support and guidance from her predecessor and mentor, Laurie Alburn, CEE graduate advisor, Susheela Mallipudi, and department head, Chuck Shackelford. 

“Laurie had so much patience with me when I started. I watched how she worked with students and I still try every day to emulate her. I also couldn’t have done any of this without Susheela – she is my rock,” said Miller. 

“From the moment I started working here, I was terrified to email Chuck because he’d be scrutinizing my grammar. Now, he trusts and respects me, he asks my opinion and gives me autonomy to be the advisor I want to be.”

“I wouldn’t be the advisor I am today without Laurie, Susheela, and Chuck.”