Jerry L. Miller, Ph.D.
Bio
I explore how diverse influences—environmental, cultural, economic, and historical—shape our understanding of place. My work examines how we both construct and are constructed by the communities we inhabit, visit, or encounter through others' stories. This perspective informs not only my scholarship but also my commitment to communication as a tool for navigating our interpersonal and public lives. What we choose to say, and what we leave unsaid, profoundly matters.
Professional Experience
Professor, School of Communication Studies, Ohio University (2015–present); Associate Professor (2002–2015); Interim Director (2011–2013). Previously: Cassese Director of Forensics, Ohio University (2002–2005); Director of Forensics and Assistant Professor, School of Interpersonal Communication, Ohio University (1996–2002). Earlier positions include director of forensics roles at The University of Oklahoma and Pittsburg State University, and graduate teaching appointments in communication at multiple institutions. Founding member (2018) and Board President (2024–2026), Ohio Debate Association.
Publications
Articles in Global Discourse, American Behavioral Scientist, Political Communication, Contemporary Argumentation and Debate, White House Studies, Communication Studies, and others. Book chapters in Teaching Communication, Anticipating Madam President, Electronic Election: Perspectives on the 1996 Campaign Communication, Classical Rhetorics and Rhetoricians, and History of the Mass Media in the United States: An Encyclopedia. Instructional video: Using Visual Aids. Numerous presentations at national and international conferences.
Selected Honors
•Faculty Mentor, Ohio Fellows (2014–present) • 2023 Outstanding Learning Community (Instructor) •2018-2019 Bruning Academy Participant •Top OHIO Faculty Newsmaker, presented by University Communications and Marketing & Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost (2016-2017, 2017-2018) •2015 – Outstanding Advocate Award, University College, Ohio University •2012 - Karlyn Kohrs Campbell Top Rhetoric Paper, Central States Communication Association •Distinguished Alumni Award, Delta Sigma Rho–Tau Kappa Alpha (2001) • College Coach of the Year, Speech Communication Association of Ohio (2001) • Educator of the Year, Ohio Forensics Association (2000) • ICA Excellence in Teaching Award (1995) • Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award, University of Oklahoma (1995) • Phi Kappa Phi (1988)