Near the beginning of the second half, Miller was brought onto the court and surprised with the University Spotlight of the Game, where Athletics recognizes different areas of the university throughout the season.

As Miller was very involved in the Winter Fest Tailgate before the game, Athletics thought it would be a good time to recognize her.

Miller, the director of the Center for Student Activities and Leadership Development, was joined by the Athletics Coordinator of Marketing and Promotions Taylor Blakely, as well as the OUSC legislator Vicki Harris and Student Body Vice President Madison Kubinski.

In front of the entire O’rena, Miller was presented with an autographed basketball, signed by all players of the men’s and women’s basketball teams.

A graduate from OU, Miller has been working for her alma mater for more than 30 years.

Kubinski was honored to be on the court with her for the presentation.

“Jean Ann is probably one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met. She’s been giving back to the university since she was a student here,” she said.

Blakely was equally grateful for this opportunity.

“She is so passionate about Oakland, especially the student experience. It was so much fun getting to show everyone how much Athletics appreciates everything she does for the campus and community,” he said.

In her time here, she has dedicated her life to working with the Oakland community and has had a major impact on the school.

Of her many titles is liaison to organizations like the Oakland Post, WXOU and Student Video Productions, according to oakland.edu.

She is also a part of the Council of Advisors for the Golden Key International Honour Society. In this important position, her job is to “provide feedback to the Golden Key staff and leadership, foster collaboration among chapters in their region, and judge regional and international awards,” according to the Golden Key website.

She has also helped to coordinate events like Welcome Week and Week of the Champions Oakland University.

Time is not all Miller has given. Last October she generously donated $25,000 as part of the All University Fund Drive.

Spreading out over five years, the money will go to specific organizations each year, such as Alternative Spring Break and the Honors College.

She spoke about her contributions in a past interview with the Oakland Post.

“It’s just a giving back to the university that’s been such an important part of my life, from the time I was a student here into being a professional,” said Miller. “It’s just acknowledging that … I’m so grateful and this is one way of showing how grateful I am to the whole Oakland University community.”

In this small act, it was OU’s turn to show its appreciation for her commitment, passion and giving heart.