West Virginia University senior finance major Sommer Miller from Ona was one of only about 30 students selected from a national field of candidates to attend the Risk&Insurance Management Societys (RIMS) national conference April 27-May 1 in San Diego.

As the recipient of one of the societys prestigious Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Program awards, she will have the opportunity to attend all seminars, workshops and industry sessions on risk management, employee benefits and general management. Her conference registration, round-trip travel, hotel and meal expenses will be paid for, and she will receive a small stipend for expenses.

Miller is a student employee with WVU s risk management unit and a former intern there. She plans a career in risk management and insurance following graduation in May.

Adviser and finance professor Terry Rose called Milleran outstanding student, who is also very enthusiastic about the field of risk management and insurance.

Her intention to follow this career path tells me that our field is getting another very fine young person who will be a credit to the profession,he said.

Supervisor Mike Gansor said Millers work with risk management and the Division of Finance has been exceptional.

Sommer was the first student employee/intern hired by the risk management Department, and she has made numerous contributions and suggestions to improve the operation,he said.She learns quickly, completes assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail, and routinely communicates with faculty and staff, risk management colleagues and insurance personnel outside the system.

She has a high level of professionalism and maturity,Gansor added.The RIMS award is a testament to her abilities, and I am very proud of her.

Miller is the daughter of Bill and Teresa Miller of Ona.