One
treat about starting my new position in Media Service was the close contact with
Science faculty, and Glenn was definitely a “frequent-flyer.”
At the time I was responsible for loaning the College’s collection of
videotapes, and Glenn had several favorites that he used every semester.
One that many students will remember is “China’s Only Child.”
I can’t recall how many times I loaned this tape to Glenn, not enough.
He was very interested in always having the best material to present to
his students to illustrate the concepts that were important to him.
One class that I become very familiar with was the telecourse “Power of Place.” He ran this course sometimes several times a year. This course became extremely popular, and enrollment would have a waiting list. The videos are very popular and I have heard from more than one student about how much they enjoyed the class, and how much they appreciated having Dr. Miller for their teacher and making the material “come alive!”
Glenn introduced me to the world of SEMAGEC (see-magic) because that’s what he saw with the kits and videos I would catalog for him. Anything he could put into the hands of teachers that made their job more exciting, more effective, and more educational for the classes was important to him. Watching him and helping set up any audiovisual support for the annual Geography Fair was also tremendous fun. I think in addition to a rich learning environment, Glenn also thought that learning should be fun! Fun for the teachers as well as fun for the students - and fun for the families! Glenn knew that I managed NASA resources for educators and regularly brought or sent teachers to me for materials. He would organize workshops for teachers that I would lead and get even more information and materials into their hands. It was a terrific working relationship.
I was invited to and have become a regular at the annual Geography International Lunches. I remember Glenn bringing in Jello molds with geographical reference. Even the food he would bring was fun! I am indebted to him for including me in this event, making me feel welcome, and encouraging me to come back year after year. It is truly an event I look forward to every year.
Glenn also helped make Halloween an occasion never to forget on this campus! He would always dress in style - his own unique style! It was absolutely wonderful to share a child’s holiday with an adult who could enjoy the season with an endless abundance of spirit, joy, and a sense of impishness! The more impish, the better he liked it!
Sadly and joyously, what I remember from most recently was the NESTVAL conference in October 2002. My partner, Dr. Glenn W. Cook was presented with the “Friend of Geography” award from Glenn Miller. Because of Glenn Miller, I learned how close New Bedford is to my home, it always seemed about as far away as Africa. NESTVAL was the last time we were all together and it was an absolutely perfect night. Their humors played off each other and it was a marvelous time for all. The Whaling Museum in New Bedford was a magnificent host and a spectacular setting for the event. With the loss of both Glenn's in July (the handsome one, and the other one!) this event has become even larger than life in my memory and is most truly cherished.
My love and thanks to Glenn Miller for being part of my life in so many wonderful ways.
Janine
Boutin
Media
Services, BSC
