Her Story
About Leigh
Leigh Miller serves as Director of Nature Centers for the National Audubon Society, where she oversees two centers in Ohio, one in Columbus and one in Dayton. In this role for six years, she manages a staff of 20 full-time employees plus nearly 30 seasonal staff, focusing on operational excellence, fundraising, storytelling, and program development to connect visitors with conservation efforts. With more than 15 years in the nonprofit sector and about 10 years in conservation, Miller previously managed medical practices and public gardens or conservation spaces. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Temple University in Philadelphia in public relations and marketing with a minor in business. Miller is a member of the Association of Nature Center Administrators, serving on its development committee, and holds positions on the Ohio Environmental Education Fund Advisory Board, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Water Committee, and the Ohio Environmental Council as a governor-appointed member. She has received an award from the National Audubon chapter. Miller attributes her success to strong role models and professional development support, and she values collaboration and trust in her work.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Leigh
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think I've had some great role models in my work. I really have 3 really great individuals that have really helped me. Early in my career there was a woman who ran a local nonprofit who I just really looked up to and she was just such a great example of being strong, understanding that collaboration, and being a builder. And then most recently in my current job just having that senior leadership support and guidance, having an executive coach to really help guide you, and I think when we invest in professional development you feel you're invested in you can do anything and so I try to take that down to my staff.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I think the best career advice I've been given is to listen. It's not about me. And be intentional all you do.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say be your authentic self. Know your boundaries. Ask questions. And know that you can do anything.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think that the biggest challenge is understanding the next generation's concerns regarding conservation and making sure that we are doing everything we can to understand their concerns so that we can partner together for solutions. As I'm getting older this idea that we have to take care of our world right? Technology's increasing at such a rate. It's how do we marry the growth in technology so that we have the resources we need without stripping our Earth of it? How do those two play together?
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Collaboration. Trust. I think those two are to me the most meaningful right? Because if you're trustworthy right you can lead with intention you can be a role model. And collaboration is key. We can't do it alone. Everyone has a role to play. And the more you bring in the more fruitful it'll be.
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