Friday, January 25, 2019

Part of a regular series.

Throughout the year, GNACsports.com uses this space to profile conference student-athletes, coaches, and administrators. Collectively, it is these individuals who make the GNAC one of the top NCAA Division II athletic conferences in the nation.

Name: Jasmine Miller
Institution: Western Oregon University
Title: Athletic Administration & Compliance Graduate Assistant
Hometown: Tualatin, Oregon

Colleges Attended: Western Oregon University

College Major/Degrees: Bachelor’s of science in business with a sports management minor.

Why Did You Decide To Work In Collegiate Athletics: Being a former collegiate athlete, I have a huge love for athletics and I wasn't ready to let that love go. Student-athletes put in so much time and effort into both their school and sport that I wanted to be able to provide support so that they are able to navigate college successfully and become successful students, athletes and leaders.

Who Has Influenced You The Most As A Professional - Either As An Inspiration, A Mentor, Or Philosophically: Randi Lydum. She is both my boss and my mentor. She has done SO MUCH for the athletic department here at WOU that I couldn't imagine it without her. She is a strong female leader that wears so many hats yet is able to be a compassionate and strong leader to so many. I have learned so much from her and I am excited to continue to learn from her.

What Does Division II Mean To You: I really believe that Division II is living "Life in the Balance." I think the importance of valuing both school and athletics is one of the great things about Division II. I think it means providing a supported academic and athletic environment as well as cultivating leaders who are well rounded.

If You Could Spend The Day With One Person (Past Or Present), Who Would It Be (And Why): Serena Williams because she is an amazing athlete and woman. She has had such a challenging journey and has overcome many obstacles. She is an inspiration to so many. I think she is one of the greatest athletes, both male and female, of all time and she carries herself so well as a woman, a leader and an athlete.

Extracurricular Activities: Staying active, enjoying time with family and friends, watching movies and listening to music!

Favorite Sports Team: I don't have a favorite team but I really enjoy watching both NBA and college basketball.

Favorite Athlete: Serena Williams and LeBron James

Most Memorable Sports-Related Moment: My four years of playing college basketball!