Butch Miller and Mike Lee pose for a photo.
It happens like clockwork each fall when the leadership of University Yacht Club changes. It’s not without its pomp, all tied up in hundreds of years of marine tradition, but it’s also a time of reflection and looking ahead.
In October, Commodore Butch Miller passed the gavel to incoming Commodore Mike Lee. The weeks leading up to the official ceremony included “Pass in Review” with several dozen club members forming a parade to salute Miller and his wife Teresa for their successful year of leading the 263 through major milestones.
Miller’s leadership saw the completion of the UYC clubhouse renovation and expansion. During his term, the club saw an increase of 7% in active membership and 71% in intermediate/legacy members (ages 21-39), plus a very active social calendar.
“When I became Commodore in October 2024, I had several goals: increase our membership to include a younger demographic, provide more activities and events to further enhance our members’ sense of community, and see to conclusion the renovation of our clubhouse,” Miller said. “Our club family continues to grow and thrive over the past 12 months; our finances are sound; and our clubhouse improvements are paid for.
“However, we couldn’t have accomplished what we did this past year without the support of our Board of Governors and club members,” he said. “And of course, my wife Teresa has been a major part of my success throughout the year.”
The new UYC deck is only steps from the lake.
Mike Lee and his spouse Chip Fincher joined University Yacht Club in August 2018. Within two years he was elected to the Board of Governors and began his service on the bridge toward his time as Commodore.
“When I joined UYC, I honestly had no idea what I was getting into, but it was quickly evident to me that I was in the right place with amazing members – more like family – and so many wonderful assets of people and facilities,” said Lee, who has worked in technology management at Siemens for over 25 years.
A graduate of Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire, he majored in sport and leisure management. “I always had a passion to run a marina, hotel or golf course, but my career took a different turn. However, it looks like my education has come full circle.”
A boater since he was young, Lee grew up in Marlboro, Mass. His first independent boating came before age 8 on a 10-foot Avon with a 6 hp motor. By age 12 he was solo captaining his family’s 1965 20-foot Correct Craft Tournament Skier.
“When I moved to Atlanta for work after graduation, I was a bit worried,” he said. “I thought I’d be landlocked, but then I learned about Lake Lanier. I was over the moon and there began my home away from home, being on the water.”
The UYC clubhouse featuring the new deck.
Lee’s parents recently moved to the Lake Lanier area and are also members of University Yacht Club.
Commodore Lee’s vision focuses on boosting member engagement, expanding the range of club activities, and enhancing financial strength. A member app, reflecting his emphasis on technological growth, is among the recent advancements at UYC.
“This year we have a very full calendar of events, from our ‘Saturday Night Live’ member show to our annual oyster roast and a new event in February called Denim, Diamonds and Lace,” he said. “We have a treasure here on Lake Lanier with University Yacht Club with our fabulous facilities, an onsite restaurant, docks for our members and of course, our family environment.
“My personality is to be a servant to the club and its members,” he said. “My overall goal is simple: Leave the club better than I found it.”
Photos: by Pamela A. Keene
