20 Under 40 | MARCUS MILLER
Photo by JOHN BURNS
Marcus Miller serves as the Executive Director for First Tee - Greater Topeka where he provides leadership and direction to fulfill the organization’s mission. He oversees staff, programs, expansion, and execution of the strategic plan. Marcus represents First Tee - Greater Topeka throughout the Shawnee and Jackson County areas as the primary person responsible for strategy, fundraising, governance, marketing, management, and compliance.
Marcus is a member of the Omni Circle Group, a council member of Stormont Vail Patient & Family Partnership Council, president of Police Athletic League, and a board member of Topeka Area Sports Commission.
Marcus also coaches basketball for Shawnee Heights High School and the Topeka Wildcats. Marcus and his wife have two children and are licensed foster parents.
What led you to this career?
My daughter was the start of it all. Her mother and I met when my daughter was 6 months old, and I knew then that I couldn't imagine the feeling of not being there for her. Soon after, I began doing more volunteer work and coaching, and then decided I would give my life to make sure young people and their families always had someone they could turn to. Having high character, a heart for service to others and honesty are big things for me, so I make sure that any program I am involved with has those same pillars in its mission. That's why I believe this organization and I crossed paths at the perfect time.
What should one never take for granted?
Their existence. Each day is a blessing, and although we can't always make the best of it, we can always try to. There are so many things that could have happened with our lives, but each day we have an opportunity to improve or get clarity for what it is. Just do what you can, every day, and you are doing just fine.
What is your leadership style?
Passionate empowerment is what I believe in. I want others to believe in themselves as much as I believe in them, to achieve their personal and/or our collective goals. I will never stop trying to make sure people understand that happiness and believing in yourself will allow us to do great things together. Keep the purpose in mind, and the rest will fall in line.
Click here to go to the full list of 2022 20 Under 40 Honorees.
