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The Voice of Mars Hill Answers Your Call
by Cassie Moore
Three years ago, Lou Miller accepted a job as the receptionist for the Mars Hill Hotline, becoming the unofficial voice of Mars Hill College.
Ever since then, she's been helping to "direct our calls" and greet new visitors with a cheerful hello and a caring smile on the main floor of Blackwell Hall.
Miller is originally from Burnsville, North Carolina. She is an active member in the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, where she enjoys singing in the choir and taking part in the Awana Youth Program.
Even though Miller does not have any kids, that does not stop her from feeling motherly around campus. "I see the Mars Hill students as my own kids in a way," she says. Many students know that when their own mother may be miles away, a warm hug is always free, compliments of Miller.
When she isn't greeting future students, awarding free hugs, or helping out at her church, Miller loves to catch up on her reading and watch Lifetime movies. She also loves to take care of her mother's pet parakeet, Sweetie Pie.
No matter what time of day it may be, whether 7 a.m. or 4 p.m., Lou Miller can always be trusted to answer each phone call with as much energy as she gave to the last. "I always strive to be at my best…I try to let my smile come from within."
When asked about her favorite part of the job, Miller said she "enjoys the people…I've met some very interesting people in my three years here…I try to just let my light shine and give whoever needs it my 100% attention…I believe in first impressions and I just try to make mine a lasting impression."
Being here sixteen years, the first thirteen working in the advancement office, Miller has seen Mars Hill College grow in many ways. She's been committed to Mars Hill from the start. "I've seen Mars Hill grow together and become a family. It's interesting to watch each freshman finally become a senior."
"I am truly blessed," says Miller. Not only is she lovingly known as the "mouth of the south" by a Mars Hill trustee, Miller enjoys also being known as "the voice of Mars Hill". "It's a warm and friendly, caring place…again, I'm am truly blessed to experience the people of this college each and everyday."
When Miller took the receptionist position for the 1-800-MHC-4-YOU hotline, she was the first in a much-needed position. "Since I took the job, I have not had any difficult callers…just some 'no-clue callers'."
When the president called Miller into his office one morning to offer her the new receptionist position, she thought she was in for some trouble. Little did she know it was only "God calling...he knew it was time."
Since that fateful day, Lou Miller has earned the Golden Circle Award for making a "significant difference in Mars Hill College," awarded to her in May 2003, along with a Fifteen Year Service Award at the annual staff-faculty bash.
As for the future, Miller has no plans for retirement. "I'll need only take a half day on my funeral," she jokes. Her only upcoming plans include giving hugs. "If you ever need a hug, Miss Lou will have one for you."
Note: at the end of the interview, I did in fact receive my free hug.
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