I met Glenn
in the late 80s. I had returned to college after a career in the
military and was seeking a degree in History (Social Studies) in hopes of
becoming a high school teacher. A requirement for the program was to
earn credits in Political Science, Economics and Geography and as an older
student, I wanted to satisfy all program and degree requirements without
unnecessary delay. I attended a number of introductory sessions in
various BSC departments regarding their programs and course offerings, one of
which was at the Earth Science and Geography Department with Dr. Glenn Miller
- little did I know that the fix was on.
I met with Glenn several times
relating to course offerings and was impressed with his obvious love of
his subject area. Ultimately I signed up for a Human Geography
class which Glenn taught. The bulk of my classes remained in History and
Education and although I enjoyed them a great deal, I found I couldn't wait to
get to the Geography Department - Glenn had me hooked. As the semester
progressed he encouraged me to take additional courses in the ES&G
Department and to perhaps consider altering my degree plans somewhat. I
was frightened by this thought and somewhat reluctant to make a change at my
age but I had to admit I really liked the subject area, the department and
Glenn. I signed up for additional departmental courses for the following
semester but still was skeptical about making a deeper commitment. Glenn
wouldn't give up on me, however. He spoke to me about a graduate
assistantship in the department and suggested I consider applying for it.
Ultimately I applied and was selected for it and Glenn was my Graduate
Advisor.
During the next three semesters I
really got to know Glenn. He graciously shared his office with me and I
was able to observe one of the nicest and kindest people I have ever known.
He was anxious to share what he knew about the people, places and environment
of this planet. Although cluttered to the maximum, his office housed
information relating to subjects from local zoning to deforestation in the
Amazon, from his visits to China and Australia to tips on computer cartography
- and he could find and was willing to share it all with students and faculty
without hesitation. He absolutely loved what he was doing and hoped to
get others enthused about it as well. He was insightful and supportive
and had a great sense of humor - having the ability to laugh with people not
at them. He encouraged me when I needed it and congratulated me
when he thought it appropriate. And we became friends. At lunch or over
an occasional glass of beer we spoke about guy things: youth, school, politics
and of course the Red Sox. We also spoke about family, friends and about
the mark we hoped to leave on life. He was secure in who he was yet
willing to improve. I was, and remain, impressed with his
gentleness of heart and thoughtfulness of others.
Although not a full time Geography
teacher, I have had the opportunity to teach several courses in my
"academic love" since leaving BSC. Glenn continued to be
supportive and willing to help me put together a good course and the notes I
had taken in his classes during my days as his student are still helping out -
including his "Miller's 'Thou shall..." list.
I last saw Glenn at a Saturday
seminar on Understanding Islam this past spring. His cancer was then in
remission and he was in his usual good spirits. His enthusiasm was obvious
and I felt good at being back on BSC, working with Geographers and
Educators again. I absolutely felt charged up about it. It was
great to see Mahdu and get the latest about Vernon's trip to South Africa and
hear about Reed, but most of all to see Glenn again. Really a positive
day - and one I am glad I was able to share with my daughter, now a Geography
Major at BSC.
I am deeply saddened by Glenn's
passing but truly thankful for the professional and personal relationship
which we shared. I will miss his smile and gentle laugh but be thankful
for what he taught me: to be curious, caring and committed about life.