Tammy Hughes, departmental secretary in Leadership Development and Professional Studies, has won Troy University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award.

Hughes, who has been employed by the University since 2005, received the award from Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony on Tuesday in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy Campus. She was nominated by Jason Wingate, chair of Leadership Development and Professional Studies, and other department chairs within the College of Education.

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, Wingate called Hughes “a model employee,” deserving of the McKinley Award due to her work ethic, attitude and willingness to assist students, faculty and staff.

“Mrs. Hughes has trained multiple secretaries within the college and her expertise about systems and processes at Troy University are invaluable,” Wingate said. “She is a true team player. Faculty and administrators know they can depend on her to get the job done in a timely manner and know that it will be done correctly. She is enthusiastic about her job and always has a smile on her face. Mrs. Hughes is also a life-long learner and continues to develop her professional skills by attending workshops on technology updates, as well as taking courses that lead to a degree. She is a top-notch secretary who is invaluable to the department and the College of Education.”

Dr. Hank Dasinger, dean of the College of Education, said Hughes was deserving of the recognition.

“Mrs. Hughes is an outstanding employee who commands respect from her peers for her work ethic and team spirit,” Dr. Dasinger said. “She constantly demonstrates excellence in her duties, which reflects her deep commitment to the University’s mission.”

Hughes said she was honored to receive the McKinley Award.

“The College of Education is like my home,” Hughes said. “Everyone works together and that’s what makes it remarkable. I want to thank everyone for this honor. It truly means a lot.”