Suzanne McMillian
Executive Administrative Assistant, Office of the Provost
Presidential Distinguished Staff Award 2009-2010, Non-Exempt Staff

Suzanne “Sue” McMillian has served UMBC with dedication and foresight for 26 years. In her position as executive assistant to the provost, McMillian fulfills the responsibilities of an assistant and goes beyond – serving as a mentor, collaborator and colleague.

McMillian has a unique ability to organize, systematize and remember information, all of which has aided in the efficiency of the provost’s office. She creates unique systems for dealing with information sharing and has the ability to forsee the needs of those with whom she works. One system in particular that McMillian initiated, developed and now maintains is an authoritative centralized tracking of faculty appointments, probationary reviews, contract renewal reviews, promotion and tenure reviews and current rank and tenure status.

Another area in which McMillian excels is policy management and administration. She has organized and continually updates a policy archive, which serves not only the provost’s office but the rest of the campus as well. Her interpersonal and communication skills are also a major asset to both the office and campus. She can be relied upon to draft or edit formal communications, such as letters from the provost, with clarity and an appropriate tone.

Functioning as an invaluable resource to the campus, McMillian is proactive, not just responsive, and she is committed to serving students, faculty and other staff peers – not just the individuals to whom she reports. She exemplifies UMBC’s core values of excellence and integrity.