Morris Miller was born on this date in 1927. He was a Black nurse, and family consumer services advocate.
He was born in St. Vincent, West Indies, where he received his initial training through a fellowship with the World Health Organization (WHO). In 1959, he earned the equivalent of a master of Science degree from the University of West Indies in Mona, Jamaica. After further study in microbiology at the University of Minnesota, he became one of the first Black nurses at Abbot Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. There he spent 16 years in its coronary care unit. In 1977, Miller became director of nursing at Queen of Peace Hospital in New Prague, Minnesota, and three years later, he became associate administrator.
Miller was a warmhearted professional who broke down many racial barriers during his career. He volunteered for the board of directors with the American Heart Association for over 30 years. After his retirement, he was appointed to the board of directors of the Sabathani Community Center in Minneapolis. There he developed a strategic five-year plan with incentives for teenagers (specifically young black males). Miller was also a long-standing Masonic Lodge member.
Married with three daughters, Morris Miller died in Minneapolis on April 23, 2002.
