Columbia International University is mourning the passing of former CIU President Dr. Johnny Miller. Miller served as the school’s fourth president from 1991–1999. He died on Easter Sunday at age 81.
Before becoming CIU president, Miller was a professor in the CIU seminary for five years. His tenure as president was a time of growth for CIU, both in programs, and in buildings. It was during his administration that the school changed its name from Columbia Bible College to Columbia International University. During that time the CIU European campus in Korntal, Germany was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
Miller also oversaw the addition of CIU’s Muslim studies program, a Distance Learning Program, the Graduate School Education Program, and the Communication Program in the Undergraduate School. Buildings that were constructed on campus during Miller’s presidency include The Schuster Building, the Alumni Center, and improvements to student residences, including the installation of air conditioning.
Miller was also involved in the expansion of satellite locations for Ben Lippen School, CIU’s Christian Pre-K to 12th grade college preparatory school and the expansion of CIU’s broadcasting division when radio station New Life 91.9 WRCM in Charlotte, North Carolina went on the air.
Miller also served as a missionary to Sweden and was involved in church planting. He ministered in several foreign countries, including Eastern Europe, India and Egypt. He also served in pastoral positions in Houston, Texas and Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Miller’s education included an undergraduate degree from Arizona State University, followed by both a Master in Theology degree and a Doctor of Theology degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. Miller was named an honorary CIU alumnus in 2018.
Early in his life, Miller was a sports reporter for the Arizona Republic newspaper. The CIU baseball field is named in his honor.
Dr. Miller is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jeanne, two adult children, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The date and time of a memorial service to be held at CIU will be announced later.
Founded in 1923, Columbia International University is private, Christian and multidenominational. With over 2,800 students studying on campus or online, CIU specializes in Bible-centered professional development that prepares students to impact the nations with the message of Christ in ministry, missions and the marketplace. CIU is recognized for its emphasis on biblical authority and world evangelization. www.ciu.edu
