Columbia, South Carolina, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Dr. Johnny Miller, who served as the fourth president of Columbia International University from 1991 to 1999, passed away on Easter Sunday at the age of 81. His leadership brought significant growth to the university, including the introduction of new academic programs and campus developments. Miller is remembered for his contributions to CIU, including the change of its name and the construction of notable facilities. He leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of educational advancement.
Columbia, South Carolina – Dr. Johnny Miller, the fourth president of Columbia International University (CIU), passed away on Easter Sunday at the age of 81. Miller’s leadership from 1991 to 1999 was transformative for the university, which underwent substantial growth in academic offerings and campus facilities during his tenure.
Under Miller’s guidance, the institution officially changed its name from Columbia Bible College to Columbia International University. His presidency marked the introduction of various innovative programs, including Muslim Studies, Distance Learning, Graduate Education, and a new Undergraduate Communication major. He conducted numerous campus development projects, prominently including the construction of the Schuster Building, The Alumni Center, and upgrades to student housing.
Before becoming president, Miller served on the faculty of CIU’s seminary for five years, contributing to the academic growth of the institution. He also played a significant role in the expansion of Ben Lippen School, which has multiple satellite locations. Notably, Miller was instrumental in the launch of CIU’s New Life 91.9 WRCM radio station in Charlotte, North Carolina, which expanded the university’s outreach.
In recognition of his contributions to the university, the baseball field at CIU was named in his honor, and in 2018, he was designated as an honorary CIU alumnus. His extensive career also included serving as a missionary in Sweden and as a pastor in Texas and Pennsylvania, along with ministering in various countries, including Eastern Europe, India, and Egypt. Before taking on his leadership role at CIU, Miller was a sports reporter for the Arizona Republic.
Dr. Johnny Miller is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jeanne, along with two children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Details regarding a memorial service at CIU will be announced in the future.
Key Contributions During Presidency
- Programs Launched:
- Muslim Studies
- Distance Learning
- Graduate Education
- Undergraduate Communication
- Campus Development:
- Schuster Building
- Alumni Center
- Upgraded Student Housing
Background Information
Dr. Johnny Miller’s professional journey reflected a diverse array of experiences, including previous roles as a missionary and a pastor, as well as early work as a sports reporter. His significant contributions to CIU established a legacy of growth that continues to influence the university’s direction today.
Survivors
He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, two children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Memorial Service
Information about Miller’s memorial service at CIU will be shared at a later date.
FAQ
- When did Dr. Johnny Miller pass away?
- Dr. Johnny Miller passed away on Easter Sunday at the age of 81.
- What significant changes occurred at CIU during Miller’s presidency?
- During Miller’s presidency, CIU experienced significant growth in academic programs and campus development, and the university changed its name from Columbia Bible College to Columbia International University.
- What programs did Dr. Miller help to launch?
- Dr. Miller was instrumental in launching several new programs, including Muslim Studies, Distance Learning, Graduate Education, and Undergraduate Communication.
- What facilities were developed during his time?
- Campus construction projects included the Schuster Building, the Alumni Center, and upgraded student housing.
- What was one of Dr. Miller’s previous roles before becoming president?
- Miller taught at CIU’s seminary for five years before assuming the presidency.
- What memorials have been put in place to honor Dr. Miller?
- The baseball field at CIU is named in his honor, and he was designated an honorary CIU alumnus in 2018.
- Who survives Dr. Johnny Miller?
- He is survived by his wife Jeanne, two children, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
- When will the memorial service take place?
- Details for a memorial service at CIU will be announced later.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dr. Johnny Miller |
| Position | Fourth President of CIU |
| Tenure | 1991 – 1999 |
| Age at Passing | 81 |
| Significant Changes | CIU’s name change, introduction of new programs, and campus development |
| Survived by | Wife Jeanne, two children, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren |
| Memorial Service Announcement | Details to be announced later |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Lexington to Host Week of Thrilling Sports Events
Lexington County Considers New Housing Developments
Lexington Prepares for a Week of Sports Events
Passing of Dr. Johnny Miller, Former CIU President
Columbia University Commencement Marred by Protests
Fayetteville Says Goodbye to Community Leader and Golf Legend
Honoring Dr. Johnny Miller: A CIU Legacy
Additional Resources
- WACH News: Johnny Miller Passes
- CNN Profiles: Johnny Miller
- Union Progress: Love of the Game
- Wikipedia: Columbia International University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Christianity
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