February 9, 2004

McKinley Award, December 2003 Winner — Brenda Parsons

Brenda Parsons

Brenda Parsons, office associate in the department of criminal justice in the College of Arts and Sciences, was named the McKinley Employee Award winner for December 2003. Her nominator, Dr. Celia Lo, associate professor and chair of the department, wrote that Parsons embraced change when that quality was needed.

"A part-time staff member in the department's main office for several years, Brenda has proved remarkably flexible, adapting quickly to ... new operational policies," Lo wrote.

Lo explained that when she became department chair in August 2002, she envisioned a new agenda for the department, which meant new ways of striving for excellence. "So successful was she — from the start — at implementing change, that I asked her early on if she could work additional hours."

In addition, Parsons' excellent office skills and other talents "have made her an invaluable asset," Lo added. "She does so much to keep this department on the move, working toward a first-rate performance and reputation in the criminal justice discipline."

Parsons' work and commitment clearly meets the criteria for and spirit of McKinley Award winners.

The McKinley Award was established by Helen H. and John K. McKinley of Darien, Conn., and Tuscaloosa in honor of John McKinley's father, Vergil Parks McKinley. The award recognizes enterprising employees who, by action or idea, contributed to the University's mission of teaching, research and service. The monthly award carries a cash prize. Vergil Parks McKinley came to UA in 1918 and retired as head of the College of Education's trade and industrial development department in 1945. If you would like to nominate an employee for future awards, contact Human Resources at 348-6690.

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