-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Brandon Miller?
I would describe myself as an outgoing, loving, open-minded, charismatic, black man who has a contagious smile and laugh. I am an individual who wants others to see the best in themselves and be motivated to be the best version of who they are. Positivity is something that I naturally exude.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born in Lynchburg and raised in Amherst, Virginia. My parents – Annette Reynolds (mom), Darryl Spradley (father) and Wanda Spradley (stepmom) – are all special human beings. My brother, Jaze, and I are ten years apart, but he is my best friend. I was raised with a strong faith in the Lord. Growing up, I was taught your word was everything, and that education is critically important. I feel my family’s encouragement to be myself shaped me into the person that I am today.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
After graduating from EC Glass High, I attended Radford University. In 2006, I earned my Bachelors of Social Work. At Radford, I had the opportunity to work for the Multicultural and International Student Office, known today as the Center for Diversity and Inclusion.
I became the President of the organization making an impact on the LGBTQIA community and educating other students about diversity, equity and inclusion. Engaging in these opportunities continued to further my want to help others reach their full potential.
What is your official title and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am the Mental Health Skills Supervisor for New Hope Support Services. Owned by Sherman Lea Jr., we are located here in Roanoke. I primarily supervise a group of mental health providers who teach life skills to adults who have a mental health diagnosis. This includes medication management, social skills and money management, among other things.
How important is family to you?
Family is very important to me! Spending time with family on holidays is what rejuvenates me and keeps me grounded. It also allows me to focus on my goals, dreams and aspirations. Family is not always blood-related. I’ve made lifelong relationships with such people that I’ve met over the last decade.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
A lot of artists would be on my playlist. In no particular order, I’d certainly have: Jidenna, Post Malone, Samara Joy, Dria Thornton, MC Hammer, Earth, Wind & Fire, Outkast, Erykah Badu, Kaskade, Daley, Remy Ma, Daft Punk, Gun & Roses, Lotus, Meg the Stallion, Mississippi Mass Choir, Paramore, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, Madonna, RuPaul, Rihanna, Nirvana and the Bangas.
How would you describe your relationship with the City of Roanoke?
My relationship with the city is always growing. I have great relationships with different leaders in the community, including Mayor Joe Cobb who I consider a good friend. I try to make an impact on the community by being a positive role model, educating others, regarding the importance of mental health awareness, and supplying resources to meet the needs of people.
Outside of your profession, what do your hobbies consist of?
Having played since I was ten, I really enjoy tennis. My biggest influences are Serena and Venus Williams, Arthur Ashe and Malivia Washington. This passion has given me an opportunity to be part of the Eureka Tennis Club. I am also a freelance model. I had the opportunity to walk in New York Fashion in September 2024 and have been published in local, national and international magazines. I enjoy modeling because it gives me a creative outlet from my mental health job.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of your family?
Gloria Manns is someone who sees things in me that I do not always see in myself. She’s not just a mentor, she’s my sponsor too. She pushes me to be the best version of myself and encourages me to think outside of the box.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
To remember that every day you wake up, you are amazing and destined for greatness. Don’t put others before your dreams and goals. You are good enough. If people do not agree with what you are trying to accomplish, maybe they weren’t meant to be on this journey with you. #BrandNewLiving – “Live Today Better Than You Did Yesterday.”
