NORWOOD, NC, February 18, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Donna J. Miller has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Ms. Miller has established herself as a formidable leader in the nonprofit sector who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to community service and advocacy. Since 2019, she has served as the executive director of Christy's Champs, where she has been instrumental in providing comprehensive support services, including case management, hospital accompaniment and basic needs assistance. Her innovative approach includes equine therapy, which has proven highly effective for trafficking and trauma victims dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder. Ms. Miller's career also includes her work with Dandelion Turtles, which she founded in 2023 and now serves as CEO. In this capacity, she has focused on creating impactful programs that support children in need.

In addition to her nonprofit work, Ms. Miller has served as an independent travel agent and mentor with Honu Travels since 2023. Her expertise in this field allows her to guide others in exploring new opportunities while fostering personal growth and development. Her dedication to leadership is further exemplified through her ongoing work as a certified international coach, speaker, trainer and teacher with the John C. Maxwell Team. This certification, which she received in 2016, marks a high point of her career and underscores her commitment to empowering others through education and mentorship. Meanwhile, her previous experience as executive director of Esther House of Stanly County from 2013 to 2020 highlights her long-standing dedication to nonprofit leadership and victim advocacy.

Ms. Miller began her career in law enforcement, spending seven to eight years in the prison system. She began as a correctional officer and later transitioned to case management, where she helped inmates access services and prepare for release. She initiated the New Leash on Life program, in which inmates were taught how to train dogs for adoption or service animal programs. Her time in the prison system allowed her to study criminology and understand the motivations behind criminal behavior, informing her work in victim services. Following an injury, Ms. Miller fully transitioned into victim services. She also served as a deputy sheriff in Stanly County, NC in 2004 and 2005.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ms. Miller is a member of Western Carolina Business Leadership and contributes to her community through her involvement with Badges & Boxes. She has also been involved in search and rescue operations for missing persons since 2000 and managed a canine unit specializing in human remains detection for cold cases.

Ms. Miller's academic background includes a Bachelor of Applied Science in criminal justice from Western Carolina University, which has provided a strong foundation for her work in nonprofit administration and victim services. This educational achievement has been pivotal in shaping her understanding of the complexities involved in these fields.

One of Ms. Miller's most notable achievements was revitalizing an organization on the brink of closure with a suspended $200,000 budget. Through her community engagement and outreach, she secured a $300,000 donation from Michelin Tire Company, making it the first organization in the state to receive such a contribution. She is also proud of having overcome personal challenges. Notably, she raised five children alone after escaping an abusive relationship and now has 15 grandchildren.

Ms. Miller's work has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, she was featured among the Business Leaders Shaping the Future of Innovation and Impact. Earlier in her career, she received recognition for her contributions to the New Leash on Life Program. These accolades highlight her influence and dedication to making a positive difference in society.

Ms. Miller's career has consistently focused on public service and supporting crime victims. She describes her journey as coming full circle, from being a survivor of abuse to understanding the limitations and challenges faced by law enforcement and victims. Looking ahead, she is determined to address service gaps by providing essential resources for vulnerable populations.

She aims to secure funding to open a facility that caters especially to children who are often left without support due to existing shelter policies. Her guiding principle, "it's not about us; it's about those we serve," continues to inspire those who work alongside her, underscoring her unwavering focus on service over self-promotion.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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