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President Nora R. Miller Announces Planned Retirement

Monday, January 05, 2026
by University Relations

Welcome back, and Happy New Year!

After thoughtful reflection, I have informed the Commissioner and the Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning of my plan to retire as President of Mississippi University for Women, effective Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

This is a deeply personal decision, made with gratitude and pride. The W has shaped my life in profound ways — as a student, as an administrator, and for the last seven and a half years as its president.

Over more than three decades, I have had the privilege of serving this institution and IHL, including time at the system office. Throughout that service, it has been my honor to work alongside extraordinary faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners.

Together, we have strengthened the university’s foundation, navigated significant challenges, and positioned The W for continued success. I am proud of our recent increase in enrollment and of the recognition we have received for being a best value, a leader in social mobility, and for having the strongest nursing programs in the state. I am proud of the momentum we have built and confident in the university’s future.

I want to be very clear: I will remain fully engaged as President through my final day. Over the coming months, I will work with IHL leadership to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition. The Board will share more information about next steps in the leadership process at the appropriate time.

Serving this university — my alma mater — has been the privilege of a lifetime. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and for the dedication and professionalism of this campus community. There is much important work ahead, and I look forward to continuing that work together in the months to come.

I have full confidence in our leadership – cabinet members, deans, and directors. Over the next few months, our Planning and Institutional Effectiveness Council, chaired by Dean Brian Anderson, along with our PIE + participants and campus, will be involved in setting our strategic plan for the next five years. Your input will be valuable in this process.

Thank you for all that you do for our students and for The W. With appreciation and confidence in our future,

Nora R. Miller
President

About The W

Located in historic Columbus, Mississippi, The W was founded in 1884 as the first state-supported college for women in the United States. Today, the university is home to 2,371 students in more than 70 majors and concentrations and has educated men for 40 years. The university is nationally recognized for low student debt, community and social mobility which empowers students to BE BOLD.

Be Bold.