Brown Wins Troy University's McKinley Award For December

Brown, who has been a member of the Troy University staff since 2008, received the award Tuesday during the annual faculty/staff Christmas luncheon on the Troy Campus. Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, presented the award to Brown, who was nominated by Dr. John A. Kline, professor and director of the Institute for Leadership Development.

The McKinley Award is the highest honor that Troy University gives to a non-faculty staff member. It is presented monthly to an employee who has demonstrated outstanding attitude, innovation and work ethic. The award was established by former Texaco CEO John McKinley in honor of his father, Vergil Parks McKinley, who was a Troy University professor during the early 20th century and was key to the development of the University’s athletic program. Winners of this award receive an engraved clock and a $350 stipend.

In a letter of nomination, Dr. Kline commended Brown for her dedication and service to students.
 
“Donna Brown is absolutely one of the most dedicated, conscientious, likeable people at Troy University,” Dr. Kline said. “In the two years she has been with the Institute for Leadership Development, Donna has ensured the success of a new Leadership Minor. Mrs. Brown also does a stellar job making arrangements, working hard to ensure the success of the many conferences administered by the Leadership Institute. Donna Brown is a winner – one who epitomizes the qualities that make her unquestionably highly deserving of the McKinley Award.”
 
Brown said she was honored to receive the award.
 
“I was completely surprised,” Brown said. “This was totally unexpected. Words can not express how truly honored I am to receive this award.”