Posted on Thursday, June 08, 2023
TSU alumnus Perry J. Miller, M.S., A.A.E., IAP
Texas Southern University graduate, Perry J. Miller, has been selected as chair of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) for 2023-24. Founded in 1928, AAAE is the world’s largest professional organization representing people who work at public-use commercial and general aviation airports.
"I owe a debt to my alma mater, Texas Southern University," said Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer at Richmond International Airport (RIC). "It not only prepared me for a career. It prepared me for leadership. Not to mention, I met my bride Tanya Fisher-Miller, there; who inspires me to continue to press toward excellence in achievement."
Miller graduated from Texas Southern with a Bachelor of Science in Airway Science Management and Master of Science in Transportation Planning and Management. After graduating from TSU, he worked with the Houston Airport System, holding leadership positions at Ellington Field, George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport. He left Houston to be the interim CEO of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority in Jackson, Miss. And in 2019, he was appointed president and CEO of Richmond International Airport.
Students and professors from TSU’s aviation science management program were on hand in Denver to witness Miller ascend to the top role.
“It’s a proud day for TSU, and TSU aviation in particular,” said Dr. Terence Fontaine, executive director of TSU’s aviation science management program. “More importantly, it gives students who are matriculating through our aviation program the determination and confidence that they too can rise to the top in this industry. It’s about them seeing someone like Perry Miller who attended the same school, sat in the same classes, participated in the same projects they’re doing right now and thinking ‘I can see myself as the CEO of an airport one day.’ His success shows our students what can be accomplished with hard work and perseverance.”
In addition to his leadership roles in AAAE and the RIC, Miller is a valued mentor and member of the TSU Aviation Advisory Board.
“Mr. Miller has been such a dynamic leader and an exceptional mentor,” said fellow advisory board member and Chief Community Relations and Business Affairs Officer for Houston Airports Rhonda Arnold. “I am thankful to him for always inspiring me to be prepared and to do my best.”
As chairman of AAAE, Miller will represent 9,000 members across 875 airports and hundreds of companies and organizations that support the airport industry.
Category: Alumni, News Media, Students, Faculty & Staff