Huston-Tillotson University Appoints Dr. Jennifer P. Miles as New Vice President for Student Affairs
Monday Jul, 01 2024
Austin, TX – July 1, 2024 – Huston-Tillotson University is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer P. Miles as its new Vice President for Student Affairs. Dr. Miles brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in higher education to this critical role.
A Passionate Leader with Deep Institutional Knowledge
Dr. Miles is a 19-year veteran of higher education, with a strong commitment to student success and a deep understanding of Huston-Tillotson’s mission. Since 2018, she has served as the Director of the Center for Academic Innovation and Transformation (CAIT), where she has been instrumental in securing nearly $2.8 million in funding for scholarships, faculty and staff development, technological advancements, and infrastructure improvements.
Modeling the importance of shared governance, Dr. Miles’ leadership on institutional committee includes membership on the Strategic Planning Committee, Scholarship Committee, Campus Technology, Library Learning Resources Committee, Convocation Committee, and Academic Council.
A Champion for Partnerships and Innovation
Dr. Miles is a skilled leader known for her ability to forge strategic partnerships with corporations. Under her direction, Huston-Tillotson partnered with Apple Inc. Community Education Initiative to expand scholarship and technology access for students. She was also key to securing Huston-Tillotson’s designation as an Adobe Creative Campus, making it only the 3rd HBCU in the nation with this distinction. Additionally, she fostered a strong relationship with Greater Mount Zion Church of Austin, leading to the creation of a valuable mentorship program for Huston-Tillotson Honors students. In 2020, Dr. Miles led Huston-Tillotson to be named an HBCU C2 Coding Center, helping increase digital literacy among minorities through app design and coding, most notably directing the annual Summer Coding Camp in partnership with Austin’s Pre-Engineering Enrichment Program (AusPREP).
Philanthropic efforts having served on the boards of UpLevyl Inc, Digital Higher Education Consortium of Texas Quality Matters, Frankfort Arts Foundation and the Pearls of Excellence Foundation Williamson Co.
A Dedicated Mentor and Scholar
Dr. Miles’ commitment extends beyond administration. Since 2020, Dr. Miles has served as the Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program, guiding some of Huston-Tillotson’s brightest students to successful careers. She also brings experience as an Assistant Professor, with a teaching philosophy centered on student success.
Dr. Miles holds a doctorate in Higher Education Policy & Leadership Studies and is a UNCF Mellon Institute on Teaching & Learning Fellow. Other awards include: EAB Rising Higher Education Leadership Fellowship 2023, Excellence in Title III Coordination 2023, Making the Difference Award 2022, The President’s Vanguard Award 2020 – 2021, and Staff Member of the Year 2019-2020. She is a passionate advocate for student mentorship and brings a well-rounded perspective to her new role.
“I’m honored to serve Huston-Tillotson’s incredible students. My vision is to build upon our strong foundation, fostering a thriving campus community where every student feels empowered to excel academically, personally, and professionally. Together, we’ll cultivate an environment rich in opportunity, mentorship, and innovation, ensuring our students graduate ‘First to Foremost’ and ready to make their mark on the world”, stated Dr. Jennifer Miles.
Huston-Tillotson University is confident that Dr. Miles’ leadership will be instrumental in creating an even more vibrant and supportive environment for our students. We are excited to welcome her to this new position!
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About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT is an independent, church-related, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission is to nurture a legacy of leadership and excellence in education, connecting knowledge, power, passion, and values. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study. Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. HT is also an NC-SARA school. For more information, please visit www.htu.edu.
