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Jean Miller

As the old saying goes, "walk a mile in my shoes," and I'll show you that there’s room to put a little creativity and joy in every day, even if it means those shoes you’re walking in are lime green and sparkly. (I enjoy creating and wearing unique jewelry and accessories to make every day more special!)

Walking a mile in my shoes would also show you there’s time to get to know every student that crosses your path, and huge satisfaction in supporting the My Mizzou program. Giving to My Mizzou, for me, is as natural as the old cliché, "if the shoe fits, wear it."

Why the shoe analogies? My father was a Missouri shoe store owner for many years, and he was also very interested in conservation of our land’s natural resources. As a child, he took me mushroom hunting and fishing, and we often had family barbecues at a small lake near my hometown of Shelbina, Missouri. Several of his friends worked for the Missouri Department of Conservation. He passed away when I was 18 years old, but I know he would have been so proud that I work for such a great institution that strives to create outstanding programs in conservation research and education.

I’ve lived my entire life in Missouri, and most of that time, it’s been one of my goals to work for the University of Missouri. I love working with the students of our school. In fact, it is the students who have touched my life that inspire me to give to the My Mizzou program each month to support undergraduate education in the School of Natural Resources.

I was reluctant at first to give to My Mizzou, wondering if I had the financial means to make any kind of difference.When someone told me that I could share a gift of any size, and make it simple through payroll deduction, I knew this was the right plan for me. Even though the amount I give seems small each month, it will certainly make an impact over the years.

I still remember when I enrolled in the My Mizzou program. I filled out my form as soon as I received it, then "put on my walkin’ shoes" and marched proudly down to the development office. What a joy to help the students who have come to mean so much to me. I know it was a walk that would have excited Dad, too.

Even though my gift is small, if everyone would do the same, together we could make a huge difference.

No matter how large or small, please know your gift helps not just My Mizzou, but Our Mizzou.

Please put on your walking shoes and support YOUR Mizzou!