Monica Stephens, information technology assistant in the Sorrell College of Business, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.

Stephens, who has been a member of the TROY staff since 2002, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony on Monday at the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Sven Aelterman, IT director for Sorrell College.

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.

“Even though Monica did not have formal IT training, she accepted the new assignment with determination and has since developed significant knowledge and skills in a number of IT support areas,” Aelterman said. “Monica is the primary point of contact for all lecture capture within the college, and she performs that task in an outstanding fashion, combining deep technical skills with problem-solving, teamwork and communication ability. She has a great work ethic and I receive nothing but praise for her when others provide feedback.”

Stephens said she was both surprised and honored to receive the recognition.

“I was so excited and surprised to receive the McKinley award,” Stephens said. “What an honor it was today to know that my hard work and efforts have been noticed and appreciated. I enjoy working with all of the faculty and staff in the Sorrell College of Business. Every day is an adventure. Thank you again for such an important recognition.”