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Marilyn Miller's generous annual gift to Emmanuel College empowers the next generation of women in science. Her commitment to these students reflects her belief in the importance of providing opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible.
The Marilyn Miller ’70 Summer Science Research Fund supports housing for female students undertaking research projects, easing their financial burdens and enabling them to focus fully on their scientific endeavors.
Inspired by her own experiences and the strides women have made in science, Marilyn, a member of the College’s President’s Society, explained, "The culture at Emmanuel — and the world at large — has evolved significantly since my college days. I was one of just six physics majors, which was considered a large number at the time,” she said. “Today, there are far more opportunities for women in math and science; I am passionate about encouraging women to seize these opportunities and excel in these fields. By supporting individual female students in their summer research endeavors, I feel that I’m making a direct and personal contribution to their future success.”
After graduating from Emmanuel in 1970, Marilyn took a full-time job in print production, having worked part-time at a nearby print shop that produced the college's newspaper. "I didn't have the appetite for more school just then, so I took a full-time job in print production," she recalled. Marilyn later pursued further education, earning her MBA from Northeastern in 1982.
Her career eventually led her to Fidelity Investments' advertising agency, where she spent 14 years before a reorganization in 2001 prompted her departure. A brief stint at State Street Global Advisors followed, but it was not a good fit. Marilyn found more satisfaction in helping customers with their home decorating needs at a fabric store in Newton.
Fond Memories of Emmanuel College
Reflecting on her time at Emmanuel, Marilyn reminisced about the small, supportive community. "I was such a shy person. I would have been swallowed up at a bigger school," she said. The College's intimate environment allowed her to thrive and make lifelong friendships. In fact, she recently played in Emmanuel’s Inaugural Golf Tournament with three fellow alumnae. Her love for Emmanuel extended beyond academics; she fondly recalled solo trips to Fenway Park to watch the Red Sox and keep score from the bleachers.
Marilyn's academic journey included participating in a study abroad program in Germany. This ten-week program after her junior year allowed her to live with a host family, attend classes in German literature, music, and history, and travel extensively across Europe, broadening her horizons and deepening her appreciation for different cultures.
Sister Mary Bernadette Barrett, Chair of the Physics Department, and Physics Professor Sister Camille Minichino were particularly influential during Marilyn's time at Emmanuel. Sister Camille, who later left the convent to work at Livermore Labs in California and authored many volumes of detective fiction, left a lasting impression on Marilyn. These mentors helped shape her academic and professional paths, fostering a deep appreciation for science and education.