Marlee Millman, Retired P.R. Executive

Marlee Millman, an 11 year Tucson resident and retired P.R. executive, is Gabrielle Giffords’ supporter of the week. Her favorite part of the campaign has been “learning about how intelligent Gabrielle is and how honest she is. She has lived up to everything that I have thought about what a candidate should be about. She has exceeded my expectations.”

Marlee was born in Chicago, and spent the first 55 years of her life there.

After graduating from high school, she attended Indiana University before taking a 15-year break from her education. During that time, she worked as a legal secretary. At age 34, she returned to college, this time enrolling in Northwestern University, where she earned a degree in communications.

After earning her degree, she got married to the love of her life, Ron. She also became the Associate Director of Public Relations at Columbia College, a city college in Chicago. Later in her career, she was a feature writer with Crain’s Chicago Business, a weekly business publication.

After 12 years of wonderful marriage, Ron passed away, and Marlee decided to move to Southern Arizona. “I needed a change,” she said.

Since moving to Tucson, Marlee has had stints working at the Volunteer Center of Tucson, as well as with the Tucson Symphony.

Marlee’s support of Gabrielle Giffords stems from her appreciation of her youth, gender, intelligence, and experience on the issues. “We need more women,” Marlee said. “And she was young, and she has experience. The experience, combined with her youth, was quite appealing.”

Giffords’ positions on a variety of issues proved to be the right fit for Marlee. “I identify with her pro-choice stance, and her education policy, and her position on immigration,” she said.

Marlee also approves of her position on Iraq and her message of change. “She articulated that we have to leave Iraq sensibly, and also that we need change in Washington,” Marlee said.

“I adore her,” Marlee said. “When I see her, I just want to give her a bug hug because she is so endearing. Plus, she is so intelligent. She is so articulate.

“This has been one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in my life, and I’m so sorry I didn’t do this when I was younger. The staff welcomed me. It was like a family. I am honored to have volunteered.”