The Miller Group

03/19/2024

Rudy R. Miller Proffers a New Scholarship Program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the College of Business, Security and Intelligence, Prescott, Arizona Campus

Scottsdale, Arizona (March 19, 2024) – Rudy R. Miller has awarded his first College of Business, Security and Intelligence (CBSI) scholarship to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, AZ, student, Haley Childress. Ms. Childress is a senior pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Global Security and Intelligence Studies, with minors in Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies plus Psychology.

Embry-Riddle Prescott’s College of Business, Security and Intelligence represents the first comprehensive degree-granting college of its kind in the United States. CBSI focuses on the training of future business, security, and intelligence professionals, on both the national and international level. The College’s courses of study emphasize research in the fields of global business, international security, and global intelligence. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus is a National Security Agency (NSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designated National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE CDE) institution.

Along with her studies and keeping a 4.0 GPA, Ms. Childress is an active member of the Security Industry Association. She is a member of International Order of the Rainbow for Girls (IORG, a youth club that teaches leadership, confidence, and citizenship) where she is responsible for coordinating fundraisers with the organization. When acting as leader, Haley raised money for charity, as well as donated needed items to a charity that worked towards getting homeless people back on their feet. Haley is the treasurer of Talonz Gaming Guild and is also on staff on the Guild’s discord server.

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman, President & CEO of The Miller Group and related entities, stated, “Ms. Childress is an extraordinary person with exceptional focus and intellectual acumen. Her proud parents are very supportive of her goals and objectives. In her freshman year of high school, she was given the opportunity to take Homeland Security as an elective course. In her sophomore year, she was taking community college courses that she was able to transfer to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. It’s a privilege to mentor her as she looks forward to a career with a United States government agency or private industry.

“I would like to thank Dr. Thomas Drape, dean of CBSI, Steve Bobinsky, executive director of philanthropy, and Alan Saquella, professor, for their time with me and Haley at the university.”

Haley Childress said, “When I received notification that I would be receiving the initial illustrious Rudy R. Miller CBSI Scholarship award, I was ecstatic. Then I was able to learn more about Mr. Miller, a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is truly a high-energy, colorful individual with a tremendous background and expertise in numerous fields. His mentorship and faith in me will aid in my future opportunities.”

Alan Saquella, B.S., M.S. & (CPP) (CPE), professor, Global Security and Intelligence, commented, “I am delighted to highlight Haley Childress’s exceptional presence in my courses. She excelled in White Collar Crime and is currently showcasing her powers in both my Security Investigation and Interview Technique and Tactics courses. Haley not only embraces challenges, but surpasses my expectations. Her willingness to take risks reflects a commendable dedication to learning.”

Saquella continued, “I am particularly thrilled that she is the first recipient of this prestigious 2023 Rudy R. Miller College of Business, Security and Intelligence Scholarship. This major accomplishment underscores her commitment and potential for success in her field of her endeavors. I am immensely proud of Haley and know that she will achieve remarkable feats.”

About Rudy R. Miller
Mr. Rudy R. Miller, a former member of the U.S. Armed Forces, is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and investor in numerous industries. Mr. Miller is Chairman, President, and CEO of Miller Capital Corporation, an affiliate of The Miller Group of entities; for more information, including Mr. Miller’s biography, visit www.themillergroup.net.

In 2023, Mr. Miller was selected by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to join two influential advisory boards for both the College of Aviation and the College of Business, Security and Intelligence. In addition to joining the advisory boards at Embry-Riddle, he established scholarships for students at both colleges and set up a fund to support simulator training to improve commercial pilot safety, the Rudy R. Miller Instrument Safety Currency Program (ISCP).

Mr. Miller instituted the annual Rudy R. Miller Business - Finance Scholarship Program in 2008 to support Arizona State University, W. P. Carey School of Business. Since inception, Mr. Miller has issued three additional ASU scholarships, not included in the annual award process, totaling 22 ASU scholarships to date. Mr. Miller had the honor to serve as a member of ASU’s Dean’s Council of 100, a national group of prominent business executives invited by the Dean to play a leadership role in shaping the future of the W. P. Carey School of Business.

Mr. Miller’s philanthropic endeavors include support for the non-profit arts community, selective universities, athletic foundations, and veterans’ projects. He is a member-sponsor of the Army Historical Foundation and the National Museum of the U.S. Army located at Fort Belvoir, VA. He serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board of Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc., an organization that honors veterans. Mr. Miller developed the aviation scholarship program process in 2018 on behalf of Tbird2 at six colleges, for both veteran and non-veteran students, including two 4-year universities, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Arizona State University, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University photographer, Connor McShane, Director of Enrollment Multimedia, 928 777-6912
Official photographer for The Miller Group and its affiliated entities - Gordon Murray, 480 205-9691 (www.flashpv.com)

09/06/2022

ASU Student Receives Aviation Scholarship from Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.

Scottsdale, AZ (September 6, 2022) – Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. (“Tbird2") announced it awarded the Tbird2 Aviation Scholarship to Arizona State University (“ASU”), Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, student McKinley Ritchie. Tbird2 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in Scottsdale, Arizona, honoring all military veterans, creating unique educational opportunities for Arizona students studying all aspects of aviation, and supporting Dogs4Vets.

Mr. Ritchie is majoring in Aeronautical Management Technology with a concentration in Unmanned Aerial Systems, as well as pursuing an Associate Degree from the Community College of the Air Force in Aircrew Safety Systems Technology. Prior to enrolling at ASU, McKinley enlisted in the Arizona National Guard. After completing basic military training, he attended the Air Force Technical Training School and graduated with the “Flight Chief Award”. He then returned to Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson to complete his one-year on-the-job training and was awarded “Airman of the Quarter”. McKinley works as an Aircrew Flight Equipment Technician for the Arizona Air National Guard as well as being a full-time student at ASU.

Marc O’Brien, Program Chair of Aeronautical Management Technology, Chief Ground Instructor, and Senior Lecturer, ASU, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, said, "The ASU Aviation Program is proud to announce that McKinley Ritchie is the 2022-2023 recipient of the Tbird2 Scholarship. McKinley is an excellent student who holds an outstanding 4.0 grade point average and will continue with his dreams of becoming an aviator for the U.S. Air Force."

Steve Ziomek, Chairman and President of Tbird2, stated, “McKinley is a class act, team player, and certainly gives it his all. He has spent most of his young adult years giving back to the community while serving in the Air National Guard. We are proud to recognize McKinley with this scholarship and plan to follow him during a successful career in aviation.”

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman of Tbird2’s Advisory Board and Scholarship Committee, commented, “During our interview, Steve and I asked McKinley …. “Why do you merit to be the ASU recipient of the coveted Tbird2 Aviation Scholarship and what motivated you to apply for this honor?” (I will paraphrase his comments). He shared with us his passion for aviation at a very early age and his father, a U.S. Air Force veteran (Avionics), and his mother, a businesswoman, taught him to strive for excellence, plus be accountable for your actions in life. His parents also inspired him to exceed any and all expectations. They instilled in him the significance of individual hard work ethic, which has been essential in achieving his academic, aviation, and military objectives to date. He has long-term goals and he understands how impactful the Tbird2 Aviation Scholarship honor is perceived by all veterans and the aviation industry overall.” Mr. Miller continued, “We are extremely proud to have this accomplished young man, who is also serving his country in the military, be our Tbird2 Aviation Scholarship awardee.”

About Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in 2014 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. During World War II, an airfield named Thunderbird Field II was built for the sole purpose of training U.S. Army Air Corps pilots in 1942. Thunderbird Field II graduated over 5,500 men and women pilots, many of whom saw military action in Europe and the Pacific. The field and school were deactivated on October 16, 1944, sold to Arizona State Teachers College (ASU), then to the Arizona Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and finally to the City of Scottsdale in 1966 and is now known as Scottsdale Airport (KSDL). Tbird2 has a permanent memorial at the entrance of the Scottsdale Airport, located at 15000 N. Airport Drive, Scottsdale, AZ, and a historical display inside the facilities honoring the service of men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as POW-MIAs.

The Aviation Scholarship Program provides scholarships to veteran and non-veteran Arizona resident students who meet specific criteria and are attending Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Cochise College, Pima Community College, or Yavapai College. For more information, please visit www.tbird2.org.

About Dogs4Vets
American Service Animal Society, dba Dogs4Vets, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enabling disabled veterans live a more productive life through the use of service animals. Dogs4Vet offers lifetime support and service dog training for over 100 Arizona veterans each year, at no cost to the veteran.

Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.

Contacts:
Steve Ziomek
Chairman & President
[email protected]
480.664.6604

Rudy R. Miller
Chairman, Advisory Board &
Scholarship Committee
[email protected]
602.225.0505

01/14/2022

04/10/2020

Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. Awards Aviation Scholarship to Yavapai College Student

Scottsdale, AZ (April 09, 2020) – Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. (“TB2") announced it has awarded an Aviation Scholarship to Dewayne Brown, a Yavapai College student pursuing two Associate of Applied Science degrees, one in Aerospace Science – Unmanned Aircraft Systems and one in Management. He is scheduled to graduate in May 2020. TB2 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in Scottsdale, Arizona, honoring all military veterans and creating unique educational opportunities for Arizona students studying all aspects of aviation.

Prior to enrolling at Yavapai College, Dewayne Brown was honorably discharged as Staff Sergeant, Stryker Systems Maintainer, after serving in the United States Army for over 13 years. While on active duty, Dewayne was deployed to Korea, Germany and 3 tours in Iraq.

Mr. Brown has been able to maintain above a 3.7 GPA along with working at Yavapai Prescott Indian Tribe as a Lead Security employee. He is currently a private rotor drone pilot and upon graduation, he plans to become a part of the Yavapai College UAS program as a part-time instructor teaching and training drone pilots. His objective is to obtain his FAA Commercial Part 107 Drone Pilot Certification and ultimately start his own security company including flying both fixed wing and rotor drones.

Steve Ziomek, Chairman and President of TB2, stated, “This award to Dewayne Brown, a UAV (drone) pilot, further illustrates TB2’s commitment to providing scholarships to Arizona students interested in all aspects of aviation, be it pilots, mechanics, avionics technicians, air traffic control and more. We will continue to work with Arizona education institutions to select the brightest and most deserving students and help them further their journey into aviation careers.”

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman of TB2’s Advisory Board and Scholarship Committee, remarked, “We are extremely proud of our selection of Dewayne Brown, the 3rd TB2 Aviation Scholarship awardee over the past 6 months. He is also the first community college student to receive this honor and joins a growing group of exceptional TB2 scholarship winners. The Scholarship Committee will select a minimum of 4 additional aviation scholarship recipients this fall, 2020.”

Mr. Miller continued, “I would like to thank all of the participating colleges and their related foundations for their assistance in making this program so successful. Plus, I want to express my gratitude to all the individuals, veterans and companies for their financial support of our organization’s mission.”

Ashley Hust, Yavapai College Foundation, commented, “This award goes further at a community college than people may think, covering close to an entire year’s expenses for a deserving veteran. We’re pleased that Dewayne is the first Yavapai College recipient of the Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial Aviation Scholarship. He’s worked hard during his time here and we’re certain he’ll put his aviation education to good use.”

Dewayne Brown received TB2’s award, sponsored by Prestige Cleaners and represented by Chairman of the Board, Donn C. Frye and CEO Denise Testori. The Donn Frye family and Prestige Cleaners were one of the initial major donors and have continued to support TB2 over the past 5 years.

Prestige Cleaners, with seven valley locations, is a family-owned, local dry cleaning company. Serving the Valley of the Sun since 1964, Prestige Cleaners delivers exceptional eco-friendly dry cleaning, laundry, tailoring & alterations, and wedding dress & heirloom preservation. For more information, please visit www.prestigecleaners.com.

About Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. During World War II, an airfield named Thunderbird Field II was built for the sole purpose of training U.S. Army Air Corps pilots in 1942. Thunderbird Field II graduated over 5,500 men and women pilots of who many saw military action in Europe and the Pacific. The field and school were deactivated on October 16, 1944, sold to Arizona State Teachers College (ASU), then to the Arizona Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and finally to the City of Scottsdale in 1966 and is now known as Scottsdale Airport (SDL).

The Aviation Scholarship Program provides scholarships to veteran and non-veteran Arizona resident students who meet specific criteria and are attending Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Cochise College, Pima Community College or Yavapai College. TB2 has a permanent memorial at the entrance of the Scottsdale Airport, honoring the service men and women of the nation's five armed services: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force, as well as POW-MIAs. For more information, please visit www.tbird2.org.

11/18/2019

THUNDERBIRD FIELD II VETERANS MEMORIAL, INC. AWARDS FIRST AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP

Scottsdale, AZ (November 14, 2019) – Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. (“TB2"), a non-profit 501(C)(3) dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in Scottsdale, Arizona, honoring all military veterans and creating unique educational opportunities in aviation for young students, today announced it awarded the first TB2 Aviation Scholarship to Arizona State University, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, student Megan Whittard.

The Scottsdale Airport, a vital part of Scottsdale, is a cornerstone of its development and progress. During World War II, the airfield, built for the sole purpose of training U.S. Army Air Corp pilots in 1942, was known as Thunderbird Field II. Thunderbird Field II graduated over 5,500 men and women pilots of who many saw military action in Europe and the Pacific. The field and school were deactivated on October 16, 1944, sold to Arizona State Teachers College (ASU), then to the Arizona Conference of Seventh Day Adventists, and finally to the City of Scottsdale in 1966.

Megan Whittard started her flight training in high school where she earned her private pilot certification. At ASU, Megan continued her flight training and earned her Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Management Technology. She is continuing her education with the 4+1 program to earn her Masters in Aviation Management and Human Factors. Once she graduates with both degrees and totals enough hours, she is planning on working for a regional and then a major airline. With her Masters, she is set to enter into a flight operations management position, such as Chief Pilot.

Marc O’Brien, Program Chair of Aeronautical Management Technology, Chief Ground Instructor, and Senior Lecturer, ASU, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, said, “Megan was a student in several aviation classes I’ve taught at ASU. She is an exceptional scholar and a highly skilled pilot. Megan is truly a role model for women pursuing careers in aviation.”

Steve Ziomek, Chairman and President of TB2, stated, “Megan is an outstanding example of what a student’s interest in aviation can accomplish. Along with her studies and keeping a 4.0 GPA, Megan also works as a Certified Flight Instructor teaching other new students how to fly while she builds her hours of flying time. We are extremely proud to present her with our first aviation scholarship and I, as a pilot myself, look forward to following her advancement within the aviation industry.”

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman of TB2’s Advisory Board and Scholarship Committee, commented, “It is a privilege leading the development of the TB2 – Arizona Aviation Scholarship Program and I appreciate the Board of Directors’ support of this important project. Over the past year, we have selected six colleges in our state, who offer aviation curriculum, to receive TB2 scholarship funds for specific scholarship recipients. The colleges screen and select the qualified candidates who meet TB2 criteria – which includes a separate component for veterans.”

Miller continued, “It was an honor to be Co-Presenter with Steve Ziomek, of our initial scholarship award to Megan Whittard at a ceremony held at Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Scottsdale Airport. TB2 is aggressively moving forward with its aviation industry student educational programs with schools and other various youth organizations. We are scheduled to present at least six aviation scholarships in the coming year 2020.”

To honor Megan Whittard as the first TB2 Aviation Scholarship recipient, TB2 hosted a luncheon, sponsored by The Amazing Flameless Candle, represented by Colin LaBerge, CEO, with keynote speaker, W. J. “Jim” Lane, City of Scottsdale Mayor. Other attendees included representatives of Arizona State University, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, TB2 board members, and other special guests.

About Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.
Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is a non-profit organization 501(c)(3) aimed at preserving the history and culture of aviation in Scottsdale, Arizona, providing a tribute to veterans, creating unique educational opportunities for children, and scholarship opportunities for Arizona students studying all aspects of aviation. The Aviation Scholarship Program provides scholarships to veteran and non-veteran Arizona resident students who meet specific criteria and are attending Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Chandler-Gilbert Community College, Cochise College, Pima Community College and Yavapai College. TB2 has a permanent memorial at the entrance of the Scottsdale Airport, honoring the service men and women of the nation's five armed services: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force, as well as POW-MIAs. For more information, please visit www.tbird2.org.

12/04/2018

THE MILLER GROUP ADDING KEY SENIOR EXECUTIVE

Scottsdale, Arizona (December 4, 2018) – The Miller Group (“MILLER”), comprised of affiliated companies Miller Capital Corporation, Miller Investments, Inc., and Miller Management Corporation, provides venture capital, private equity, management consulting and advisory services. MILLER today announced they will add key senior executive, Jerry L. Schwallier, as Vice Chairman and Managing Director for Miller Capital Corporation effective January 2019.

In his capacity as Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Mr. Schwallier provides added depth in assisting MILLER’s client companies with their business and financial objectives, plus his 40 years of executive level management expertise.

In addition to the numerous executive positions throughout his career, Jerry has focused on advising privately owned middle-market and emerging growth companies in the areas of financial analysis, debt restructuring, strategic planning, and management succession challenges.

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman, President and CEO of The Miller Group, said, “I have known Jerry for a number of years and have tremendous respect for him professionally and as a stand-up guy! Our firm is extremely pleased that he agreed to join MILLER. His hands-on executive skill-sets and financial expertise make him the perfect fit as a MILLER team leader. We take pride in being an Arizona-based firm that competes successfully in North America, Europe and Asia. Our 40 years of offering client advice and capital during both good and bad economic times is something we are extremely proud to have accomplished.”

Jerry Schwallier commented, “I could not be more pleased to join The Miller Group and work with Rudy and the Miller Team. Rudy’s years of advising and bringing strategic solutions to middle-market clients makes this an exciting opportunity for me to continue to work with growth companies following my career in banking.”

Most recently, Jerry held the position of CEO of Arizona Bank & Trust (“ABT”) from June 2010 to January 2018. He is now the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the bank as well as Chairman of the Advisory Board. Jerry will continue serving in those positions after joining MILLER. ABT is comprised of eight branches in the state of Arizona and holds total assets in excess of $650 million. ABT is an affiliate of Heartland Financial USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: HTLF).

Mr. Schwallier’s expertise is in the financial services industry having served in numerous Executive Leadership roles throughout his career. He began his banking career with American National Holding Company in Kalamazoo, MI. Jerry later held executive positions as President & CEO of several Bank One (JP Morgan/Chase) affiliates. Mr. Schwallier was also President & CEO of the Private Financial Services Group of Marquette Financial Companies, Minneapolis, MN; President of Meridian Capital Bank, Milwaukee, WI; CEO of Southport Bank, Kenosha, WI; and President & COO of Stearns Bank of Arizona.

He has been active in many professional and community organizations. Currently, he is a member of the Scottsdale Rotary Club, serves on the Board of Directors for the Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce and is Chairman of Scottsdale Coalition for Today and Tomorrow.

Mr. Schwallier served in the United States Army and is a Vietnam War Veteran. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and a Master of Business Administration in Finance at Western Michigan University, and graduated Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Rutgers University.