Dr Denise A Miller’s journey into Higher Education has been a dynamic and evolving one, beginning in 1996 with the completion of a BA in Education from the University of Greenwich (UoG), followed by eight rewarding years teaching in primary schools. Denise wanted to gain specialised knowledge that could enable her to effectively support the diverse needs of students. Hence, she transitioned to become an Educational Psychologist after obtaining an MSc in Educational Psychology in 2005. As a Chartered Educational Psychologist in the London Borough of Lambeth, Denise provided support to children and young people aged 0-25 years with additional needs. The completion of her Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology in 2014, marked a significant milestone in Denise’s academic journey. During the same year, when Denise’s son reached statutory school age, she returned to the UoG, this time as a part-time lecturer, bringing a more empathetic perspective to promoting educational excellence.
Since taking up employment at the UoG (in December 2014), Denise has had various roles, including Lecturer, Inclusivity Champion, Personal Tutor and Module Leader, while also practising as an Educational Psychologist and maintaining affiliations with esteemed organisations. As Denise reflects on her journey in academia, she recognises that her drive to effect change stems from a resonating commitment to fostering learning environments where everybody feels valued, seen, heard and empowered. Embracing challenges, leveraging experiences, and deliberately engaging with diverse people have been fundamental to Denise’s development as an educator, researcher and advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). From introducing pedagogical frameworks shaped by psychosocial and decolonised principles, to ground-breaking research and advocacy for EDI on global platforms, Denise’s endeavours have left a lasting positive impact on students, colleagues, and educational institutions worldwide. Denise firmly believes that teaching is her calling, and she is grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the education sector.