After spending more than a quarter of a century at Biola, Irene Neller, vice president of university communications and marketing, is transferring to Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena to serve in the same capacity. Her last day at Biola was Aug. 30, and she began her new job on Sept. 1.
This is the first time Fuller has had a vice president of communications and marketing, according to its website. The new position is similar to Neller’s previous work at Biola, but with a few changes, she said.
“The difference is that Fuller is a graduate school and does not offer undergraduate education, so my focus and energy will solely be directed on graduate education,” Neller said. “That will be a big change for me, but I'm looking forward to being solely focused upon graduate education and the adult student audience.”
NELLER HAS LONG HISTORY WITH BIOLA
Neller began working as an admissions counselor at Biola in 1987. She was hired by vice president for enrollment management Greg Vaughan, then the director of admissions. The two later served together on the President’s Administrative Council until Neller’s departure last week.
Brian Miller, senior director of university communications and marketing, has worked under Neller since she hired him in 1996. During the search for a new head of UCM, Miller will serve in Neller’s position as interim chief communications and marketing officer. A time frame for hiring a replacement has not yet been established, according to Miller.
“I’m looking forward to whatever time I’m given to basically get the UCM operations working at their very highest level, basically getting the house in order so when that person comes along, whoever that may be, I’d be able to hand it to them and say, ‘Here you go, everything’s organized and ready to roll,’” he said.
Regarding the replacement for Neller’s position on the PAC, Vaughan explained that the possibility of Miller filling the empty seat is still up in the air.
“The extent of his involvement with PAC during this interim period will be determined by President Corey, who will also ultimately decide about a future administrative structure and/or a permanent replacement for Irene Neller,” Vaughan said.
Having worked alongside Neller for the past 17 years, Miller praised her zeal and role as a mentor for him.
A VISIONARY AT WORK
“She was unbelievably passionate about marketing and communication,” he said. “You could just see everyday, interacting with her, that she was in this 100 percent. She loved every aspect of what she did, and she cared deeply about the quality of Biola’s image … that it needs to be of the utmost quality.”
Neller is the only female vice president in Biola’s history, according to Vaughan. In addition to this distinction, she also began the practice of celebrating Women’s History Month at Biola in 2008.
“My time at Biola has been one of complete transformation, personally, spiritually and professionally. I am incredibly grateful for this community that been my family and has seen me transform from a young college graduate to becoming a mother and leader,” Neller said.
