Meet a student leader intent on driving positive change on campus and beyond
Malcolm Miller came to Case Western Reserve University with a clear vision of what he wanted to accomplish: making a difference through social justice. As he begins his final year as an undergraduate on campus, he’s already done just that—and is equipped with the experiences and skills to continue taking action.
Miller is known across campus as an engaged member of the community. Backed by support from the President's Leadership Development Program, Miller has taken on leadership roles intent upon bringing positive change to campus life. He has been a resident assistant, tour guide, president of PERIOD@CWRU, a member of the Residence Hall Association, a member of the CWRU Spirit Committee and more.
“I simply cannot imagine not being engaged in the CWRU community,” said Miller. “Being a part of the CWRU community is how I have been able to push for change within the university, share resources and knowledge with incoming students, and meet wonderful friends.”
Driving change is central to who Miller is. In fact, it’s partially what drew him to Case Western Reserve in the first place. Of all the schools he considered, CWRU was the only one that offered a minor in social justice. Combined with two majors in sociology and psychology, Miller has filled his academic courseload with offerings that will prepare him for a future making the world a better place.
“Professionally, I plan to use my degrees to assist individuals subject to the harms of many oppressive systems in living a safe fulfilling life,” he said, adding that his studies also apply to other aspects of life, such as volunteer work.
Off campus, Miller has taken steps to advance change as a vice president of service for the National Residence Hall Honorary, a literary assistant with Advantage CLE, a researcher with the University of Pennsylvania’s Youth Civic Engagement Research Project for Social Inquiry, and an internship with Medworks through the Cleveland Foundation.
Most recently, he completed an internship with ProjectLETS through the American Association for People with Disabilities in Washington, D.C. Miller’s work involved archiving an oral history project in which individuals shared their experiences with inpatient psychiatric care. It also gave him the opportunity to participate in a Disability Advocacy Certificate program.
Learn more about Miller’s impact on campus below.
Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
1. What initially drew you to CWRU?
Although I did not get to visit CWRU in-person before attending, I had the privilege of attending virtual Q&A sessions where students talked about their experience. I heard them list their multiple majors and involvement in various co-curricular activities and knew that I wanted to be among such ambitious and driven students.
2. What about the President's Leadership Development Program (PLDP) appealed to you?
PLDP was such a unique opportunity to get formal education about leadership for social change. In high school, I learned about leadership by practicing leadership, but through this program I have been able to learn about leadership from books, speakers, experience and my cohort members.
3. How has this program contributed to your educational experience?
The full cost of attendance scholarship associated with the program has had an immeasurable impact on my studies. Without this scholarship, my studies would have taken a backseat to working to afford college. Thanks to the scholarship, I have been able to extend myself academically to attend CWRU for eight semesters, occasionally overload on credits, and pursue two majors and a minor.
4. What is your fondest memory from the program?
My fondest memory of the program was a retreat at the Pink Pig at the CWRU farm. It was my first time at the CWRU Farm and I found the cottage we visited really charming. That day I had a lot of my beliefs about civil dialogue challenged within the safety of the cohort community.
5. What have your leadership experiences meant to you?
These roles have given me the most personal growth in my time as a student. Through these roles I have learned lessons about time management, communication and decision making. I have also had opportunities to travel conferences which have given me insights about how to help plan the 2025 Student Leadership Conference at CWRU this weekend.
6. What are your post-graduate plans?
After graduation I plan on staying in Cleveland and working in a basic needs navigation or case management role at one of the many wonderful social service agencies in this city. I have learned and gained so much from this city and I am hoping to one day call myself a Clevelander.