Mari Lisa Miller
Mari Miller is a retired Professor of Oral Communication at Iowa Lakes Community College, where she dedicated nearly twenty-three years to inspiring students and advancing communication education. With a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from the University of Northern Iowa and teaching certifications from the University of Iowa, Mari built a dynamic career grounded in both academic excellence and creative pedagogy. She taught courses ranging from Fundamentals of Oral Communication to Organizational Communication in various formats—face-to-face, online, and blended—while serving on college committees focused on curriculum, technology, and wellness.
Throughout her career, Mari became known for her research on vicarious immediacy and her engaging presentations at state, regional, and national conferences exploring the intersection of communication and technology. Beyond the classroom, she cultivated a passion for health communication and advocacy, blending her scholarly background with creative expression. She is the author of A Lick and a Promise, a children’s book celebrating intergenerational storytelling, and Nature’s Box of Love and Wisdom, a collection of poetry and prose inspired by mythology and nature. Her upcoming memoir, That Which Does Not Kill Us, set to release in 2025, explores themes of legacy and intergenerational trauma.
Now enjoying retirement in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mari continues to nurture her love for writing, music, and family. She spends cherished time with her two daughters and two granddaughters—reading, teaching sign language, and visiting the zoo. Whether hiking near her cabin at Lake Okoboji or playing piano for local ensembles, Mari remains deeply connected to the arts, education, and the natural world that have long inspired her life’s work.
• Cite 2016 Attendee - Managing the Online Program
• Cite 2016 Speaker
• University of Northern Iowa - MA
• Iowa Communciation Association
• Friends of Estherville Public Library
• NW Iowa Jazz Band
• Patrons of Fine Arts
• Iowa Communication Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Throughout my career, I’ve prioritized bringing real-world experiences into the classroom to create meaningful, practical learning opportunities for my students. By staying current with evolving trends and honing my communication skills, I’ve been able to connect with and educate over 10,000 students—an accomplishment that reflects both my dedication to teaching and my passion for lifelong learning.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that if one approach isn’t working to connect with a student, find another way. Every student learns differently, and it’s our responsibility as educators to meet them where they are. I’ve also learned that students may not always remember exactly how you taught them, but they will always remember how you made them feel. That reminder guides me to teach with empathy, patience, and authenticity every day.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to never be afraid to stand up for yourself and to always use your voice. Ask questions, seek clarity, and don’t hesitate to bring concerns forward when something doesn’t seem right. Confidence and curiosity are powerful tools—by advocating for yourself and staying engaged, you’ll not only grow professionally but also help create a more supportive and inclusive environment for others.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in education today is teaching cultural awareness and incorporating a variety of perspectives into the classroom. As our communities become increasingly diverse, it’s essential to help students understand and appreciate different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints. This not only enriches learning but also prepares them to thrive in a global society where empathy, respect, and open-mindedness are key to meaningful collaboration and success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important values to me, both professionally and personally, are honesty and trust. I believe that genuine relationships—whether with colleagues, students, or loved ones—are built on transparency and integrity. By staying true to my word and fostering an environment of mutual respect, I strive to create connections rooted in authenticity and accountability.
Locations
Iowa Lakes Community College
Sioux Falls, SD 57108