-Compiled and edited by Shawn Nowlin
Who is Vickie Meeks Miller?
I would describe myself as a creative, compassionate, and empathetic, people person who is a collaborative problem-solver.
Where were you born and raised? What was your upbringing like?
I was born in Roanoke. My early life was complicated in that my birth mother was a victim of domestic violence at the hands of my father. While the loss was devastating, my family was resilient. My brother and I were raised by my mother’s sister, Mary Maxine Meeks, who was an amazing, intelligent and loving woman who worked extremely hard to compensate for every loss.
I grew up primarily in the Villa Heights section of Northwest where only a few African American families resided in the neighborhood. Later, many great families moved into the neighborhood to form a traditional and vibrant environment. Villa Heights Park and Recreation Center, Forest Park School and many businesses were located within the community. Our family was very close-knit. We celebrated every holiday, special occasion or any occasion that we could just be together. My mother was a very godly woman, so church and faith were essential elements of our life.
After high school, what was the next chapter of your life?
Since many family members with whom I was close had graduated and went off to college, I was motivated to graduate early and do the same. Therefore, I graduated from William Fleming High at 16 years old in 1983, I headed to Old Dominion University. College was an exciting time for me to become educated and independent. I was highly active in campus life, and worked throughout college which developed my social and enterprising nature.
What is your official title and what do your responsibilities consist of?
I am a Senior Outreach Coordinator for BrightView Health, which provides comprehensive outpatient alcohol and substance use treatment. My markets include the greater Roanoke and Lynchburg areas. In addition to connecting individuals to treatment to save lives, I collaborate with community partners to coordinate services and resources to rebuild lives. The work is very intense and rewarding, and I appreciate the opportunity to connect with people through outreach and advocacy. Most of my professional life has involved community development, service and outreach.
How important is family to you?
My family is everything to me! My birth mother and aunt are my greatest inspirations as they’ve both sacrificed much for me. Therefore, now that I am blessed to be a mother to two amazing daughters, I feel honored to continue the legacy of unconditional love, empowerment and faith that they instilled in me. I am sincerely thankful for my husband, daughters and all those who poured into us, and there are too many to name.
If you were building the ultimate music playlist for a six-hour road trip, which artists would be on it?
I am from the great era of soul, R&B and -op music. My playlist would consist of James Brown, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Commodores, George Duke, Roberta Flack, George Benson, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, Parliament/Funkadelic/Bootsy Collins, LTD, Aretha Franklin, Hall & Oates, Whitney Houston, Steeley Dan, Chris Brown, Beyonce and Rihanna.
How would you describe your relationship with the City of Roanoke?
I consider myself an asset to the City of Roanoke. My current position, and past positions, such as promoting the Roanoke Valley as a tourism destination, are based on my love for the Star City. I am forever optimistic due to the bevy of talent, resources and possibilities that exist in this city. My collaborative nature and gift of problem-solving gives me faith that I will be involved in the progress of the City of Roanoke.
Outside of your profession, what do your hobbies consist of?
I enjoy writing, fiction, editorial, conceptual material and lyrics. I like to sing and love music in general. I also love to cook, honor and celebrate traditions. Sharing positivity inspires happiness and humor.
Which people have had the biggest impact on your life outside of your family?
There were many people who went out of their way to embrace and support me, including family friends, such as Barbara Motley, teachers such as Daisey Stevens and Delois Broady, and neighbors such as Geraldine Wiley, Pat Reynolds, and Beatrice Johnson. They constantly told me how smart I was, encouraged me to be my best and celebrated me and my accomplishments.
If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?
What you believe is what will be. You were created for a purpose and blessed with gifts to fulfill your purpose. The things that happen in your life do not dictate your destiny, your mindset does. If you believe in your purpose, and in the gifts with which you were blessed, you will determine your destiny and live in your purpose.
