Dr. Teresa A. Miller, known as Teri, was a teacher, advocate and champion of social justice who focused on criminal procedure, immigration and prisoner law. She held administrative and faculty positions at the University at Buffalo and SUNY. Notably, she championed inclusive excellence, leaving a lasting impact on higher education.
Nov. 16, 2021
Tributes and remembrances
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Dean Aviva Abramovsky highlighted Miller’s leadership and commitment.
Miller’s partner, Paula DiPerna, shared video excerpts of her academic contributions.
UB President Satish Tripathi emphasized Miller’s impact as a scholar, leader, mentor and the university’s first vice provost for equity and inclusion, noting her work on the DIFCON conversation series.
Lee Melvin, UB’s vice provost for enrollment management, shared personal memories of Miller’s warmth and ability to connect with people.
Joanne Macri, executive director of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy, spoke of Miller’s dedication to justice and her inclusive mentorship.
Former SUNY Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson promoted Miller to senior vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and chief diversity officer for the SUNY system. She celebrated Miller’s roles and her work toward creating inclusive environments.
Provost Scott Weber recognized Miller’s dedication to social justice and her role in developing the university’s diversity plan.
Professor Rebecca French reflected on Miller’s honesty and impact on the law faculty.
Professor Athena D. Mutua reminisced about their long friendship and Miller’s ability to build bridges.
SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras lauded Miller as a “happy warrior” for justice and noted her contributions to SUNY’s DEI efforts.
The service concluded with touching tributes from Miller’s daughter and sisters, who shared memories of her compassion and commitment to social justice.
President Tripathi announced the establishment of the Professor Teresa A. Miller Memorial Scholarship Fund in the School of Law and a $750,000 commitment from Kristina Johnson and her wife to endow a Teresa A. Miller Professorship at UB.