Rhonda Taylor, administrative secretary in the College of Communication and Fine Arts, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.

Taylor, who has been a member of the TROY staff since 2007, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during the University’s annual Christmas luncheon on Monday at the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Dr. Diane D. Orlofsky, professor in the John M. Long School of Music and director of choirs.

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.

“I really don’t know how Ms. Taylor manages to balance so many spinning plates in the air so gracefully and graciously,” Dr. Orlofsky said. “She always has a kind word for the students and the faculty. She is equal parts mentor, mother, friend, advocate and counsel. She keeps current with changing regulations and requirements surrounding budgets, requisitions, scheduling and a myriad of other TROY operations. Rhonda is more than deserving of being recognized in this way.”

Taylor said she was grateful to receive the award.

“This means the world to me,” Taylor said. “I truly love my job, and I’m grateful for this honor.”