By Jay Barlett, Communications & Media
HAMILTON, ON — Julia Miller has been named the recipient of the 2024/25 LIVunLtd Fitness and Well-being Scholarship.
Valued at $3,000, the award recognizes an undergraduate student who demonstrates leadership in wellness and healthy living while making a meaningful impact on the McMaster community.
A fourth-year Honours Bachelor of Arts student in Classics, Miller leaves behind a legacy of compassion, inclusion, and leadership within McMaster’s Department of Athletics & Recreation. From day one, she has been a driving force in shaping a more welcoming, supportive, and empowering recreation environment for students, staff, and visitors alike.
Her journey began at The Pulse Fitness Centre, where she served as both Support Staff and a social media content creator. Her leadership only expanded from there. Through her work with Outdoor Recreation, McMaster Camps, and the Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic, Miller’s reach touched nearly every corner of the Recreation portfolio, including as President of the McMaster Student Recreation Council.
The LIVunLtd Fitness and Well-being Scholarship is made possible through the support of LIVunLtd Fitness Equipment, a premier provider of state-of-the-art commercial fitness solutions. A valued partner in McMaster’s commitment to student health and wellness, LIVunLtd continues to invest in the next generation of leaders who are passionate about building inclusive, active communities.
Among Miller’s proudest memories is a moment coaching at the climbing gym, when she noticed a young boy with a cast left out of the action. “I grabbed a beach ball and started a game,” she said. “Soon, he was smiling, laughing, surrounded by new friends. That moment reminded me that leadership is often about noticing the small things and responding with heart.”
“Julia Miller exemplifies what the LIVunLtd Scholarship is all about,” said Trish Chant-Sehl, Associate Director of Recreation and Healthy Living. “She has spent her time at McMaster working tirelessly to engage students and community in healthy, active living while being a powerful advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Congratulations, Julia, on this well-deserved accomplishment!”
As she prepares to graduate, Miller hopes to be remembered not just for what she accomplished, but how she made people feel. “My greatest achievement is knowing I helped bring a smile to someone’s day. Every day.”