TROY,Ala.—Dawn Stephens, cashier specialist for Troy University’s Accounts Receivable Department, is the winner of the university’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award for May.

Stephens, who has been a member of the university’s staff since 1998, received the award at a ceremony today in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy Campus. Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., chancellor of Troy University, presented the award to Stephens, who was nominated by Lou Ann Johnson, director of Accounts Receivable.

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 20th 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.

A letter of nomination by Johnson praised Stephens for her attitude and work ethic. “Dawn Stephens is an extremely polite, hard-working and energetic individual,” Johnson said in her nomination letter. “She is always cooperative, willing and eager to learn and accepts added responsibilities cheerfully. She exemplifies professionalism and exhibits leadership when performing her duties. Dawn is truly an asset to Troy University.”

Stephens, who makes her home in Troy with her husband Arch, said she was honored to receive the award.

“I love my job and love my co-workers,” she said. “It is an honor to receive an award for doing something that you really love.”