April 18, 2023 — Publix Super Markets recognized Jacksonville Division Store Manager Nicole Miller, #1444, DeLand, Florida, with a 2023 Mr. George Community Service Award at the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting.
Her Publix career spans nearly three decades, and Miller leads with a servant’s heart. Her devotion to her community, associates and customers exemplifies what it means to lead by example. As an advocate for the voiceless, she reinforces Publix founder George Jenkins’ (affectionately known as Mr. George) philosophy of giving back to the communities in which Publix operates.
Miller’s commitment to service started at a young age. “My grandfather owned a local grocery store chain in Volusia County and always gave to those less fortunate,” Miller shared. “Nobody who came into his store would leave without groceries, whether they had enough money or not.” In addition, her parents would always put an extra place setting on the dinner table in case friends or family needed somewhere to go. These acts of kindness made a lasting impact on her.
Miller currently helps the Veterans Support Fund in Volusia County make sure military veterans get the food and care they need throughout the year. She also serves as the chair-elect of the board of directors for the United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, where she puts together events and fundraisers. She has also been a faithful United Way volunteer for over 20 years.
Courtney Edgcomb, president and CEO of the United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties, said of Miller, “I am in awe of her willingness to put service to her community first and foremost. She truly exemplifies the core Publix value of being involved as a responsible citizen.”
Miller explained her passion for giving. “A lot of people may say that their time or finances are the most important thing they can give,” she said. “And while they are extremely important, the advocacy and passion that I give are most important to me. Whether it’s speaking with associates throughout our district about the importance of giving back or putting together events where we can help, my passion for helping others is the greatest thing I can share,” Miller said.
About the honoree
Miller started her Publix career as a part-time cashier at #446, Ormond Beach, Florida, in 1993. She was promoted to assistant store manager in 2007. After years as a retail improvement specialist in the company’s support area, Miller returned to retail in 2017 as an assistant store manager. She was promoted in 2018 to store manager and hopes to become a district manager.
About the award
Each year, one associate from each retail division and one support associate are recognized with the Mr. George Community Service Award. These associates are actively involved in their communities, display personal integrity and represent the generous spirit of Publix founder George W. Jenkins. Recipients receive a personalized award, a feature in an internal company publication, dinner with Publix executives, three paid days off and $5,000 donated to the charity or charities of their choosing.
Miller joins Atlanta Division Store Manager Sefik Gluhic, Charlotte Division Store Manager Tim Bismarck, Lakeland Division Store Manager Billy Ray Drake, Miami Division Pharmacy Manager Deborah Lolo and Manager of Retail Security Solutions Rick Abbatiello as this year’s Mr. George Community Service Award recipients.