Melissa Foran, financial aid specialist, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.

Foran, who has been employed at TROY since 2006, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony on Tuesday at the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Angela Johnson, associate vice chancellor of financial aid.

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.

“Melissa goes above and beyond what is expected of her position and does so with the most positive attitude,” Johnson said. “She is truly one of the kindest people I know, and it is a pleasure to be around her every single day. She is very deserving of this recognition by Troy University.”

Johnson said Foran is not only a huge asset to the Financial Aid Office, but also to the students and parents she serves.

“She follows the Golden Rule and treats others as she would want to be treated,” Johnson said. “She takes her time and never makes a student feel like they do not have her undivided attention. She covers every subject she can from housing and meals to athletic events and anything else the student may ask. She helps the parents feel at ease when discussing the scholarships and how they will pay. She truly goes above and beyond for everyone who crosses her path.”

Foran said she was grateful and humbled to receive the award.

“I work with the most wonderful groups of people, whose smiling faces and daily greetings really help prepare me for my day,” Foran said. “I truly appreciate everyone I work with here at TROY. Everyone is so kind, and I am grateful to receive this tremendous honor.”