TROY , Ala. —Joe Johnson, director of Troy University ’s Creative Services department, is the winner of the university’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award for June.

Johnson, who has been a member of the Troy University staff since 1974, received the award at a ceremony Sept. 22 in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy Campus. Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., chancellor of Troy University , presented the award to Johnson, who was nominated by Sandi Gouge, associate vice chancellor for marketing and communication.

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 Gouge praised Johnson for his dedication and commitment to his job.

“He always has a ‘can do’ attitude. His career is marked with his professionalism and he inspires a team spirit with all of his staff – an office with probably the best retention rate of employees in any TROY office,” she wrote. “Joe always goes the extra mile when needed without being asked and is a joy to work with as a colleague. His love for Troy University transcends all that he does.”

Johnson, who lives in Elba , works on the Troy campus.