Mills is recognized in Who’s Who in American Art, Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in the World. He was named the 1994 Artist of the Year/ Designer of the Year for the collectible he designed for State Farm Insurance Companies. CEMREL Directory of Research recognized him as a leader and researcher, as did the National Council of Art Administrators. He was recognized for his leadership and service with the Illinois Alliance for the Arts Award and the Illinois State University Alumni Association E. Burton Mercier Service Award.