TROY , Ala. —Susan Pierce, director of student development and counseling at Troy University , is the winner of the University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award for October.

Pierce, who has been a member of the Troy University staff since 1982, received the award during a ceremony in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on Wednesday. Dr. John W. Schmidt, senior vice chancellor for student services, presented the award to Pierce. Schmidt also nominated Pierce for the award.

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.

In a letter of nomination, Dr. Schmidt said Pierce possesses a “superb attitude that motivates faculty, staff and students to excellence.”

“For more than 20 years, Susan Pierce has assisted students in literally every aspect of student life,” Schmidt said in his nomination letter. “…In all of her student support roles at TROY, one thing has remained constant: Susan assists students with a positive, supportive attitude and professional guidance as they enter our institution, as they continue on their academic journey, and even, in some cases, as they leave us.”

Dr. Schmidt said Pierce’s expertise is valued and sought after by students and faculty alike.

“When one thinks of TROY , certain people automatically come to mind,” Dr. Schmidt said. “To many students, faculty and staff of the past and the present, Susan Pierce is one of those individuals. She is not only the face of Student Development, but she is the heart and soul of this University.”