May 30, 2003

Donna Sanders wins McKinley Award at Troy State University

Donna Sanders, administrative secretary to the vice president of the Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Effectiveness (OIRPE), is the winner of the Vergil Parks McKinley Award for May at Troy State University.

Sanders, a TSU employee since 1999, received the award during a ceremony in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on Thursday, May 29. Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., chancellor, presented the award to Sanders, who was nominated by Dr. Angie Roling, vice president of OIRPE.

The McKinley Award, the highest honor that TSU gives to a non-faculty staff member, is presented monthly to an employee who has demonstrated outstanding attitude, innovation and work ethic. The award was established by former Texaco CEO John McKinley in honor of his father, Vergil Parks McKinley, who was a TSU professor during the early 20th century and was key to the development of the university’s athletic program. Award winners receive an engraved clock and a $300 stipend.

The letter of nomination described Sanders as a “people person,” who is always willing to assist others. In addition to her normal office duties, Sanders maintains the OIRPE web site.

Sanders also is active in charitable work, having co-chaired the March of Dimes program and playing a large role in the TSU Relay for Life program.

“Donna’s personality, positive attitude, willingness to help others, office and computer capabilities and organizational skills are but some of the reasons that she should be considered for the McKinley Award,” Dr. Roling said in her letter of nomination.

“Receiving this award is very humbling to me,” Sanders said. “It really brings to life the lessons taught as a child. It shows that the simple, everyday things, like treating others the way you would want to be treated, are appreciated and do pay off in the end.”

Sanders and her husband, Steve, are residents of Goshen. The couple has a daughter, Caylee, and two sons, Justin and Chad.