Troy University Chancellor honored with Distinguished Public Service Award | News

TROY – Troy University Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. was honored with the Distinguished Public Service Award on Sept. 6 during a presentation at the Pentagon.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley made the presentation to Dr. Hawkins in recognition of his service on the Air University Board of Visitors. First appointed as a member of the Board in 2004, Dr. Hawkins has served as chairman since 2009.

Members of the Air University Board of Visitors are selected from the fields of education, business and industry, the professions, and public service. The Board of Visitors exists to provide the Secretary of the Air Force advice and recommendations on matters pertaining to the educational, doctrinal and research policies and activities of the Air University.

In addition to the award, Secretary Donley presented a citation commending Dr. Hawkins for contributing “immeasurably to Air Force education efforts.” The citation also recognized the Chancellor for reviewing the entire spectrum of all Air University programs, which led to the accreditation of Air University in 2004 and reaffirmation of accreditation in 2009 by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

"Receiving this award is a humbling experience for me as the military has played a major role in my life personally and professionally,” Dr. Hawkins said. “Air University is a remarkable institution and it has been rewarding to serve with the outstanding members of the Board of Visitors and the capable leadership of AU. I shall forever be a strong supporter of the world's finest Air Force."

A native of Mobile, Ala., Dr. Hawkins was named Chancellor of Troy University Sept. 1, 1989. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Montevallo and his doctorate from the University of Alabama.

Upon completion of his bachelor’s degree in 1967, Hawkins was commissioned a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a platoon leader during the Vietnam War.

During his tour of duty in Vietnam, Hawkins’ platoon served with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. For his combat duty, he received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and a citation from the Korean Marine Corps.

Prior to taking the reins at TROY, Dr. Hawkins’ served as an assistant dean at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (1971-1979) and as president of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind in Talladega (1979-1989).

Information Source: Troy University