Earlier this month, the Samford recipients of the Southern Conference’s (SoCon) All-SoCon Faculty and Staff awards were recognized at the Feb. 7 basketball game against Mercer.
The recipient of Samford’s 2025 All-SoCon Faculty award was Niya Pickett Miller, an associate professor from the Department of Communication and Media (CAM).
“To be recognized by your institution is meaningful because it signals trust — trust in your scholarship, your teaching, and your ability to contribute to something larger than yourself,” said Miller. “At the same time, I have and do work really hard. So, I appreciate the recognition of my energy. Also, Representation matters. I’m mindful of what my presence means at Samford and I’m grateful that others see me.”
The institutions that make up the SoCon select recipients from their own faculty and staff for each year’s awards. Then, all of the universities’ selections are compiled and announced as the All-SoCon Faculty and Staff Team.
“Recipients all shared the common characteristics of demonstrated service to the institution and contributions to campus life and the local community,” says the SoCon website.
The love for Miller is not only at the level of the institution, however—her colleagues value her as well.
“She works really hard, she’s a fantastic researcher, she’s a great teacher and her students really like her,” said Ignatius Fosu, Chair and Professor of the Samford CAM Department. “I’m glad to have her on faculty. She’s a great colleague to work with.”
Miller teaches communication courses that place a special emphasis on identity. Her aim is for students to leave her classes with “critical self-awareness,” and aims to inspire “intellectual courage.” She shared that receiving the award was both humbling and validating.
“My hope is that every student who leaves one of my classes feels both intellectually challenged and personally valued,” said Miller. “Communication shapes everything. If students walk away from my classes understanding how to use this tool responsibly, then I’ve done my job.”
Staff Reporter
