May 5, 2011

The 2011 James P. Chapman Distinguished Service Award was presented to Dr. Roberta Milliken, professor in English and Humanities, at a luncheon on Friday, April 22. The prestigious award recognizes women who have contributed to the advancement of women at Shawnee State University.

Milliken has been a professor at Shawnee State since 1996 and during her tenure she has consistently and generously contributed her time and energy to the advancement of women. She has been instrumental in developing the Women's Studies minor and in the establishment of the Women's Center at SSU.

"I have never seen such passion, devotion, perseverance, self-sacrifice and tireless effort from another individual on the campus of Shawnee State," said Barbara Duncan, professor in Dental Hygiene, in her letter nominating Milliken for the award. "She was extraordinarily encouraging to me when I created my women's Studies course. Her counsel and advice were invaluable to me."

Milliken has also raised thousands of dollars for causes such as, breast cancer awareness and research, the Southern Ohio Domestic Violence Shelter and Task Force, The Scioto County Homeless Shelter, the American Heart Association and many other groups.

She developed the first Women's Studies Course in 1997. Milliken has since served as the chair for the Women's Studies Curriculum Committee and as director of the Women's Center.

"Her vision for the advancement of women on the campus of SSU is unprecedented," Duncan said in her letter. "She is the ideal role model for the female students and faculty at Shawnee State University."