Miami chooses new general counsel and vice president

Miami University has named Amy Shoemaker as its new vice president and general counsel as of Jan. 18. She will be taking the place of Robin Parker, who has formerly served in this position and will be retiring this year.

Shoemaker currently serves as deputy university counsel and associate athletic director for administration at the University of Louisville. At Miami she will have a place on the President’s Executive Cabinet (PEC).

As the vice president and general counsel, she is responsible for providing advice on legal policy and performing a variety of legal services for Miami, along with serving as the university’s chief ethics officer.

Shoemaker has worked in law for about 21 years. The focus on undergraduate education was what ultimately drew her to working at Miami.

“The liberal arts experience that Miami offers and its holistic approach to the undergraduate mission really drew me to it,” Shoemaker said. “I believe in the opportunities that public universities create and provide for students and the next generation…for me, being a part of that community is a really unique opportunity.”

Shoemaker will commute to Miami from her hometown of Louisville. She is excited to take on the role, describing it as her “dream job.”

“Every single person I met was incredibly nice and warm and generous with their time and their thoughts,” Shoemaker said, “so getting that vibe from the individuals I met — from the PEC to the deans to even the student who was involved in the interview process in the semi-final round — all of those types of things really only served to solidify and carry over into my desire to work there.”

Jessica Rivinius, director of news and media relations, said Shoemaker’s legal prowess, experience and personality made her the best candidate for the position.

“She’s approachable, smart, driven, and is just a collaborator willing to work together and put the university first,” she said.

According to Rivinius, Shoemaker was also chosen for her investment in public higher education, noting that Shoemaker has mentored students in the past.

In taking this role, Shoemaker hopes to grow professionally due to not having prior experience in being a general counsel. Additionally, she hopes to use her integrity and empathy to help serve Miami.

“I’m competent, and I’m steeped in higher education law,” she said. “But at the same time, [I’m excited] to offer really competent and thoughtful customer service to the institution and the General Counsel’s office.”