Zhanna Zhuravleva Honored with Troy University’s Prestigious Vergil Parks McKinley Award

Zhanna Zhuravleva, the Assistant Director for Academic Support, recently received the Vergil Parks McKinley Award at Troy University. This prestigious honor is given to non-faculty staff members who show exceptional dedication and innovation in their work. Zhuravleva was recognized by Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor, during a ceremony at the Troy campus.

Dr. Lee Vardaman, who recently retired as the Associate Provost for Academic Support, nominated her. He highlighted her long tenure with Troy University, which began in 2001. Zhuravleva has worn many hats, overseeing vital processes like faculty certification and coordinating graduation ceremonies. Her meticulous approach has proven crucial for maintaining smooth operations and for successful SACS-COC reaffirmations.

The McKinley Award, named after the late John McKinley, former Texaco CEO, honors his father, a key figure in the university’s history. Recipients get an engraved clock and a monetary stipend of $1,000. It’s not just a token; it signals to the community the importance of dedication in the workplace.

During her acceptance speech, Zhuravleva expressed her gratitude to those who have supported her over the years. “I am thankful to my former supervisor Dr. Lee Vardaman for this nomination,” she said. She also praised her mother for instilling values of integrity in her and credited Dr. Lester Stewart for bringing her to Troy almost three decades ago.

This recognition reflects a broader trend in workplaces today. Many organizations are increasingly valuing employee contributions beyond traditional metrics. Research shows that workplaces that recognize and reward outstanding staff not only boost morale but also improve overall productivity. According to a 2021 survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, companies that actively engage and recognize their employees experience 25% higher retention rates.

In a world where hard work often goes unnoticed, awards like the McKinley serve to remind us of the remarkable contributions individuals make to their communities, fostering a culture of recognition and appreciation.

For more on workplace recognition trends, you can check out the Society for Human Resource Management’s findings in their reports here.

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Dr. Jack Hawkins,McKinley Award,Vergil Parks McKinley,Zhanna Zhuraveleva