Antelope Intros is a recurring GCU Today feature that introduces some of our new employees to the people around them in a way that is fun and informative. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
SANDRA "SANDI" MILLER
Job title: Enrollment counselor
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? I was attracted to the growth and opportunity. I worked for another university in the past and was part of a massive layoff. I was born to be an enrollment counselor and have so much passion for helping students, so I knew I had to stay in the industry. GCU has so much opportunity and is growing in leaps and bounds, making it the clear choice for me to keep doing what I love to do. In my previous role I was able to hold students accountable and overcome obstacles they encounter. Life loves to happen when we least expect it, and the first instinct is to drop school. Through sharing my own experience my students have found that even though it gets rough, they can get through it, and the rewards of completing their degree will pay off in the long run. I am their cheerleader, coach and peer, and my commitment to them is unwavering.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Thrift shopping and selling high-end secondhand items nationwide through my own online company. I also help single moms with clothes for work when they are in need of work-appropriate clothing.
What are you passionate about? Helping other women like myself who have had to overcome obstacles to become successful and self-sufficient. I raised two children while working and getting two college degrees. I know anything is possible if you try hard enough and receive help. Even if it is just a peer-to-peer talk, it can make a huge difference. Sometimes finding the strength to persevere can be found in knowing you are not alone and that it can be done.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Cardinals football games, the Arizona State Fair and various racing events. I used to go to Manzanita Speedway in Phoenix, but it is closed. There are also events in Show Low and Gold Canyon, and the state fair always has racing events, which is why I go every year.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: My dad, Ed Miller (No. 43), is a local racing legend and ran Manzanita Speedway for a period of time. He raced in Arizona for 20+ years starting in the late '70s and retired in 2003. Also, my great grandfather owned and operated one of the first junkyards in Phoenix.
What are you most proud of? Never letting anything stop me from pursuing my dreams. If my story can inspire one person to never give up, my dream will be complete. I face every obstacle with an open mind and determination. Everything I have overcome to get to where I am has made me a stronger person. I have made it this far by having faith that I am always right where I am supposed to be and that God will never give me more than I can handle.
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LIAM JACOBS
Job title: Enrollment counselor, College of Nursing and Health Care Professions
Job location: Peoria
What attracted you to GCU? I went to GCU for school and was very involved on campus (track and field team member, Life Leader, Canyon Kids, etc.). I made so many rad friends and memories. If I had the opportunity to still be a part of GCU, I had to take it! Plus, I'd like to pursue my master’s degree.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I'm from Southern California, so I would usually go to the beach to play spikeball with friends, surf or even do a beach workout. I moved out here in July of this year for this amazing job. I love anything active, so now that I have moved to Arizona I will be hiking, camping, relaxing in the Salt River or just going out and shooting pictures with friends.
What are you passionate about? What am I not passionate about? I am very passionate about everything I do. But I am most passionate about my walk and relationship with Jesus. That is the most important thing in my life, and it is a driving factor in everything I do. If you want to know more about Jesus or me or both, I would be happy to talk to anyone.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? Considering I just moved to Phoenix, I don’t really know those things yet. But I do know that one of my favorite places is GCU!
What are you most proud of? I am most proud of getting the most beautiful woman in the world to say “yes” to marrying me! I can’t wait! Her name is Brice Johnson!
