Shannon Miller currently acts as Travel Manager within CU’s Procurement Service Center. She oversees the Travel Program for all four CU campuses and the System Office. On a day-to-day basis, she assists all campus employees with any questions/issues they may have including policy compliance, training, Travel Card questions, cash advances, travel requests and more.

“In my role, I have the pleasure of hearing or seeing what CU accomplishes not just locally, but globally. At the end of the day, it’s nice knowing that the simple things I do to help people on a daily basis makes it possible for them to achieve their goals. In many cases, these goals leave proverbial footprints worldwide,” said Miller.

Why did you initially apply to work at CU?

I initially fell in love with Colorado while on a road trip with my kids in 2013. I managed the travel program at University of California, San Diego (UCSD). In that capacity, I was being mentored by Ted Johnson, Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), who knew my affinity with Colorado. Ted worked on several projects with Sandy Hicks, former CPO of CU, thus a connection was made that would provide me the ability to advance my career within Higher Education Travel in this wonderful State of Colorado.

Tell us about your favorite project you've completed during your time at CU.

There are so many! I will narrow it down to two that were recently completed. The first is opening the ability for our employees to book rail travel in our online booking tool, Concur. The second project, which will launch in 2021, is the ability to reconcile airfare in Concur for employee and non-employee travel.

What is the best part of your workday?

The interaction I have with people. I’m definitely a “people person” so learning about the people on our campuses and fostering those relationships is the most rewarding part of my day. 

What is a typical day at CU look like for you?

I would say the majority of my day can be categorized as customer service, in one way or another. Whether it’s emails, phone calls, meetings, training, or advocating on behalf of our employees. My job is to make sure our employees get from point A to point B in the safest, compliant, cost effective, and smoothest way possible. We’re always looking for new products or services that can complement the travel program. 

What do you enjoy most about living in Colorado?

The Rocky Mountains and its seasons.

What is your favorite campus/neighborhood location?

My favorite CU campus is our Colorado Springs Campus. There is just a vibe there that isn’t felt on any of our other campuses. Maybe it’s the spectacular view of Pikes Peak, maybe it’s the people, or maybe it’s just because it’s – quaint. The scenic drive to the Springs from Denver is also top notch!

What is your favorite area restaurant?

You do realize that Libras are the most indecisive of all the Zodiac signs, right? That being said I can’t pick just one, especially here in Denver. For a casual lunch, my go-to is Park & Co or Steuben's. A fancy dinner at Guard and Grace is ideal. Earl’s offers a hip location to hang out with friends. The best Tapas in town are from Uchi.

What do you enjoy doing on your spare time?

Obviously, I like to eat. I also love cooking; it’s a nice way to spend time with my kids, family, and friends. I’m also a big fan of fermenting food; my favorite is Kimchi. For active fun, I like hiking, skiing, camping, working in my yard, and anything my dog wants to do. Oh, and snow angels…I love making snow angels!

What is your favorite perk or benefit at CU?

The ability to have a flex schedule, which for me means a four-day workweek. I know four 10-hour days isn’t for everyone, but it has been a game changer for me.

What would be your one piece of advice for someone interested in working at CU?

Think big, even if you have to start small.