Troy University News

October 26, 2004

Contact:
Andy Ellis or Tom Davis :
(334) 670-3196; aellis@troy.edu

Office of University Relations
253 Adams Administration
Troy, AL 36082
(334) 670-3196
(334) 670-3274 (fax)

Donna Massey wins October McKinley Award at Troy University

   Donna Massey, administrative assistant to Vice Chancellor for Administration Dr. Douglas Patterson and a Troy University alumna, is the winner of the Vergil Parks McKinley award for October.
   Massey, who has been a member of the Troy University staff since 1989, received the award during a ceremony held on Monday in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor. Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., chancellor of Troy University , presented the award to Massey, who was nominated by Dr. Patterson.
   The McKinley Award is the highest honor that Troy University gives to a non-faculty staff member. It 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 Troy University professor during the early 20^th century and was key to the development of the university’s athletic program. Winners of this award receive an engraved clock and a $350 stipend.
   Dr. Patterson praised Massey for her dependability. “I can count on her to complete each task in a timely fashion. She is truly my valuable ‘right hand,’ who takes care of the full range of administrative duties for my office,” he said.
   Massey also was praised for her communication skills. “As a former teacher of English and communications skills, she is invaluable in the preparation of correspondence and other documents for this office,” Patterson said. “Ms. Massey is excellent at communicating with students, staff, faculty and the general public. With her sensitive communication style, she often resolves problems before they reach my desk. She sets a shining example for others to emulate.”
   Massey said being selected for the McKinley Award was a tremendous honor. “What an honor it is to work for Dr. Patterson and to work under the leadership of Dr. Hawkins,” she said. “I am very honored to be selected for this award.”
   Massey and her husband Ben make their home in Troy .