February 21, 2007

Reggie Hicks wins February McKinley Award at Troy University

TROY, Ala. – Reggie Hicks, distribution clerk for the Troy University Post Office, has won the University’s Vergil Parks McKinley Award for February.

Hicks, who began his employment with the University as a student worker from 1997-1999 and has been on staff at TROY since 2004, received the award Wednesday during a ceremony at the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor on the Troy Campus. Dr. John Schmidt, senior vice chancellor for student affairs, presented the award to Hicks, who was nominated for the award by Arthur L. Folmar, postal supervisor.

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, Folmar said he had received numerous comments from others concerning Hicks’ positive attitude.

“Reggie has only been with us a short time, but he has done a great job as our mail distribution clerk,” Folmar said in his nomination. “His position requires working in all conditions, which he always manages to do with a big smile and a kind word. Having Reggie here has made our department run more efficiently. We are delighted that he is a part of our staff, and we appreciate what he does for our department and the University.”

Hicks said he was surprised by the award. “I just want to say thank you,” Hicks said upon receiving the award. “I enjoy working with everyone here at Troy University.”

Hicks earned his bachelor’s degree in human services from TROY in December. He and his wife Lakesha make their home in Troy.

###

CUTLINE: Reggie Hicks, distribution clerk for the Troy University Post Office, receives the Vergil Parks McKinley Award for February from his supervisor Arthur Folmar, left, and Dr. John Schmidt, senior vice chancellor for student affairs, during a ceremony in the Hawkins-Adams-Long Hall of Honor. The McKinley Award is the highest honor the University bestows on a non-faculty staff member and consists of a $350 stipend and an engraved clock. Hicks, a recent TROY graduate, is a resident of Troy.