Lisa Ferrell, departmental secretary for the Department of Counseling, Rehabilitation and Interpreter Training within the College of Education, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.
Ferrell, who has been employed at the University’s Montgomery Campus since 2011, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony on Tuesday at the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Dr. Laura Hodges, assistant professor, and Dr. Lynn Boyd, assistant department chair.
The McKinley Award is the highest honor that Troy University gives to a non-faculty staff member. It is presented quarterly to an employee who has demonstrated outstanding attitude, innovation and work ethic. The award was established by the late John McKinley, former Texaco CEO, 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 $1,000 stipend.
In a letter of nomination, Ferrell was said to “exemplify all of the qualities” associated with the McKinley Award.
“Lisa is an outstanding ambassador for our department,” the letter said. “Lisa is usually one of the first contacts many of our potential students make. She is patient and kind, making sure they understand the necessary steps to apply to the program and then to register for classes. Anyone who comes in contact with her leaves with the information they need and the feeling of having received excellent customer service.”
The letter praised Ferrell for her spirit and positive attitude.
“Lisa’s can-do spirit and determination are part of what makes her such a pleasure with which to work,” the nomination said. “She is a hard-working professional who does her job and additional duties with ease and grace. You will not find a more dedicated Troy University Montgomery employee than Lisa.”
Ferrell, who was joined at the ceremony by members of the family, said the award came as a big surprise.
“I’m so excited,” she said. “I love working at TROY Montgomery and interacting with the students and the faculty. I try to help everyone and truly treat others the way I would want to be treated.”
