Ann L. Miller, professor of molecular, cellular and developmental biology, has been named an Arthur F. Thurnau Professor in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to undergraduate education.
Miller’s empathy and generosity at both the gateway and senior capstone levels is well-known. She has helped make her department more inclusive through curricular redesign and by opening more research opportunities to students.
Miller sought grant funding to develop Biology 272, a course that has enabled more students interested in introductory molecular biology to persist in the major. Colleagues have also emulated her innovative activities, such as “Being Human in STEM” which highlights the contributions of diverse scientists.
In addition to mentoring students in her own lab, Miller also helps them connect with other campus labs that match their interests. And she has directed the Horizons Summer Internship Program, which provides paid research opportunities for underrepresented students.
One student wrote, “She made every student feel like the complex field of cellular biology was accessible to every learner, no matter their background or skill set.”
To become a Thurnau professor, faculty members must demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching and learning, excellence and innovation in teaching, and dedication to working effectively with a diverse student body.
They also must have made an impact on students’ intellectual or artistic development and on their lives, and contributed to undergraduate education in ways that extend beyond the classroom, studio or lab.
The Arthur F. Thurnau Professorships were established in 1988. They are named after Thurnau, a U-M student from 1902-04. The Thurnau Charitable Trust, which was established through Thurnau’s will, provides support for the award.
Five U-M professors were recommended for this honor for 2025. Provost Laurie McCauley presented recommendations for the professorships and descriptions of each professor’s work and achievements to the Board of Regents. This summary was taken from the provost’s recommendations.
