Rebecca Miller, professor of business and computer information technology, has long been a fixture at Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College’s Middlesboro Campus. In fact, she chose her office before the windows were cut.
“They let us pick our offices as they were building the Campus in ‘95,” said Miller. “I wanted mine back here in this corner where I knew I’d have a window, and I’ve been here ever since.”
She taught for one year for Kentucky Tech at the old Bell County High School before the technical schools merged with the community colleges.
“Southeast was a pilot school with the merger,” said Miller. “This was prior to KCTCS becoming a system.”
Miller’s office is full of memorabilia—cards, flowers, plaques, and other mementos students have gifted her throughout the years.
“It’s going to be hard not coming here,” she said.
According to Ismail Eldahan, who has taught alongside Miller throughout her career at Southeast, she is “one of the best colleagues I have ever had. She is a professional individual who is very kind and helpful, and she appreciates the diversity around her. For 30 years, she’s been my friend and colleague and will be very missed. I wish her the very best in this next chapter.”
Dr. Don Webb, who retired from SKCTC as director of Kentucky Safety Training Institute, offered similar praise: “I first met Rebecca when she was hired at the Bell County Area Vocational Center in our business program. She was immediately accepted and adored by the students and staff, and she is one of the kindest, most caring, and most selfless individuals that it has been my privilege to know. We have covered many miles together over the years, endured sorrow and loss together, and many happy, joyous times. Rebecca is family to me. I love her dearly and wish her much happiness and well-deserved rest in her retirement.”
Although Miller admits that retirement will be bittersweet, she looks forward to spending more time with her friends and family—her aunt is turning 90—as well as her flowers and animals. She also anticipates having the freedom to travel in the spring and fall.
“When you’re in education, you can only take off in the summers,” said Miller. “That’s when it’s hotter, more crowded, and more expensive. I’m looking forward to the shoulder seasons.”
As for her legacy at Southeast, Miller said, “I hope that I’ve left it better than I found it. That is my greatest wish—to leave something behind. After all, I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime.”