Henry “Hank” Miller still recalls the crisp echo of a starter’s pistol in the UNM Natatorium back in the early 1960s. As a young swimmer on a scholarship, Hank already had a keen eye for solving problems - a quality that led him to enroll in the Architecture program. At the time, he never imagined that one day, he would establish a trailblazing Endowed Visiting Professorship in Architecture at the UNM School of Architecture + Planning (SA+P).

From the moment he first stepped into Professor Don Schlegel’s classroom, Hank found himself captivated by the creative challenge of design.

I can still picture Professor Schlegel at the blackboard, chalk dust drifting onto his dark slacks. But what truly stuck with me was the depth of knowledge he brought to our design courses. – Hank Miller

After graduating, Hank applied his architectural training in real estate speculation, working alongside his uncle. He later joined leading architecture firms, managing significant projects such as a new Health Sciences building at Northwestern University. His career then shifted into public service, where he served as a federal government executive overseeing facilities and supply divisions for the Air Force Operation Test and Evaluation Command. Hank retired in 2006, yet his gratitude to UNM continued to grow.

Over the years, he has honored that gratitude by giving back - both to SA+P and, in memory of his late wife, Rosemary, to the Department of Biology. A widower, Hank cherishes the memory of Rosemary, who passed away from breast cancer, and cites their daughter Eldaa as an inspiration for further philanthropy.

During my career as an architect, I gained a deeper appreciation for my UNM education and started donating to the SA+P. My daughter encouraged me to direct my resources in a way that would make a real difference. - Hank Miller

In consultation with the School, his long-time partner, Kathy, and his daughter Eldaa, Hank decided to fund a first-of-its-kind Endowed Visiting Professorship in Architecture - an opportunity that will bring fresh perspectives to UNM students for generations to come. Any remaining funds from his gift will be dedicated to travel scholarships, giving architecture students firsthand exposure to new places, projects, and ideas beyond campus.

“Supporting local charities has always been a goal of mine as a way of giving back to my community,” Hank says. “The gift from my estate is just a logical extension of that thought process.”

SA+P Dean Robert González emphasizes how meaningful such a gift can be: “Hank’s incredibly generous gift will have a tremendous impact on our students by broadening their exposure to new architectural insights and perspectives.”

“Endowed Visiting Professorships allow students to benefit from educators who offer unique knowledge in the field of architecture.” – Dean Robert González

Hank Miller’s journey – from a scholarship student to a leading architect and dedicated philanthropist – captures the essence of how any Lobo can transform their gratitude into a transformative gift. His legacy ensures that future students will benefit from innovative teaching and hands-on-experiences – and that you, too, can play a role in writing UNM’s next chapter.

To explore your giving options, please reach out to Keith Greer, Director of Development at Keith.Greer@unmfund.org or by phone at (505) 277-5885.

Join Hank in designing a brighter future for architecture and planning students – let us know if you designate UNM SA+P as a beneficiary of your will or estate plans.