Veteran Student Affairs Leader Returns to Career Development Role

After eight years leading one of Alabama A&M University’s largest student operations, Karla Miller has been appointed director of Career Development Services, effective Dec. 1, 2025.

Miller, who most recently served as director of Residential Life and Housing, returns to career development with a deep understanding of student needs and institutional operations developed through more than a decade of service to the University.

“I was appointed under the leadership of Dr. Braque Talley, based on my prior experience in Career Development Services and my demonstrated leadership across Student Affairs,” said Miller. “After eight years leading a large and complex housing operation, I felt it was the right time to return to work that directly connects students to post-graduation outcomes. Career development allows me to leverage my operational leadership experience while focusing on workforce readiness, employer engagement, and student advocacy at a critical stage in their academic journey.”

The Huntsville, Alabama, native holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in economics from Fisk University, a master’s degree in economics and finance from Alabama A&M University, and a master of philosophy in management with a focus on leadership and organizational change from Walden University. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. degree in curriculum and instruction in educational administration at AAMU.

Miller began her Alabama A&M career in 2014 as assistant director of Career Development Services, where she administered the Cooperative Education and Internship Program, developed employer partnerships, supervised student co-op placements and served as the primary liaison for the College of Engineering. She later transitioned to Residential Life and Housing, serving as interim director before being named director.

During her tenure in housing, Miller provided comprehensive leadership for on- and off-campus operations, overseeing seven off-campus properties, managing the University’s first master lease and directing a $16 million operating budget. She supervised professional staff across housing operations, facilities, risk management, budgeting, occupancy management and student engagement initiatives, while also serving on the Student Affairs Leadership Team (SALT) and contributing to long-range planning and student success strategies.

In her new role, Miller leads a seven-member Career Development Services team that serves as a central resource for students and employers, supporting career readiness, recruitment, experiential learning and strategic partnerships with faculty and administrators.

“I am most looking forward to reconnecting directly with students and employers, strengthening career pipelines, and ensuring our students are confident, competitive, and well-prepared for the workforce,” she said.

Miller’s goals include increasing student engagement with career services, streamlining access to career support, expanding corporate sponsorships and growing employer partnerships to enhance experiential learning opportunities.

“Our primary goal is to build a seamless, student-centered career development model that integrates early engagement, employer partnerships, and measurable career outcomes,” she said.

Career Development Services will host several major initiatives during the spring semester, including Career Preparedness Week now underway, Career Week Feb. 18 - 20, and the Youth Motivation Task Force (YMTF) Outreach Program scheduled for March 29–31.

Miller’s connection to Alabama A&M extends beyond her professional role and is deeply rooted in her family. She is an alumna, along with her sister, Deborah Drake Wilkins, her sister-in-law, Linda Drake, and her nieces, Stacy Wilkins and Latricia Drake. Her father, Edward A. Miller, also attended Alabama A&M University, and her daughter, Emory Smith, is currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science at the University.

“My parents were strong supporters of the University, and I truly grew up on the Hill,” she said. “I could hear the band practicing from my porch, and I spent my summers on campus. Because of that upbringing, my commitment to Alabama A&M is both professional and deeply personal.”

Reflecting on her career and the transition ahead, Miller said her passion remains centered on student success.

“I am excited to serve students in this new capacity as Director of Career Development Services. Beyond educating students, we have a responsibility to guide, coach, and prepare them for meaningful careers. Supporting students as they transition from college to the workforce is work I find both purposeful and fulfilling.”