Students get in touch with Taco Bell representatives. Alex Ford photo Troy University students got a chance to advance their career paths last Thursday with the student part-time job fair. The job fair, led by Arminda McKee, the director of career services, was originally a response to the numbers of students who came to the Office of Career Services looking for part-time employment. “Last year was our very first time hosting this event, and several students got jobs fro

Students play different games on the rec center's courts. University Relations photos For Troy University students searching for a place to exercise, compete or spend time with friends, the Trojan Fitness and Wellness Center offers several ways to remain active on campus. The 78,000-square-foot facility includes a basketball court, a multi-activity court, free-weight and circuit-training areas, aerobic rooms, a multi-level walking track and an outdoor swimming pool. In addi

A new Christian Mission Bargain Center in Troy is providing Pike County residents with access to food, financial assistance and affordable household goods. The store opened on 300 North Three Notch St. on July 6 and quickly received more than 50 requests for food assistance, according to Executive Director of Christian Mission Centers Amanda Simmons. “We have seen a huge need,” Simmons said. “That’s probably the number one request so far since we’ve opened our doors.” Befo

Construction continues inside the Beeline addition, waiting for painters. Nate Henderson photo A Troy convenience store is preparing to up its appearance thanks to the help of Troy’s Department of Art and Design. The Beeline convenience store and gas station is about to begin the construction of a new wall on the property. Thanks to some student volunteers from the Troy University Department of Art and Design, the wall will be painted into a mural after its construction. “

Drinkard celebrates his birthday with the board. University Relations photo Troy University lost one of its most beloved trustees last Sunday, Aug. 23. Roy Drinkard, a World War II veteran and the nation’s oldest living marine, died at the age of 106. Drinkard was buried in his hometown of Cullman, Alabama, on Friday, Aug. 28. Moss Service Funeral Home directed his proceedings. “To attempt to summarize Roy’s life simply by listing the businesses he built, the honors he

A stop sign sits at a dangerous corner. Nate Henderson photo George Wallace Drive at U.S. Highway 231 is one of Troy’s busiest corridors. With businesses, restaurants and high volumes of traffic along the roadway, drivers frequently enter and exit the area throughout the day, and for those trying to leave businesses along the corridor, making a left turn can be a dangerous decision. Troy University student Sandra Hall experienced that danger firsthand while trying to leave

Campus ministry group Chi Alpha announced its return to Troy University after closing its doors at the end of the last semester. The group planned to come to an end as the previous directors stepped down with no one to replace them. Additionally, Justin Felch, the Troy Chi Alpha minister, was removed from his position in 2023 due to allegations from former members with no one to replace him, leaving the responsibilities to three staff members. The new directors of Chi Alph

Trojans pack into Tailgate Terrace to celebrate a home football game. University Relations photo In June, Troy University released an updated tailgating policy, citing safety concerns. Now, two months later, that policy has been revised. Following backlash from students, fans and alumni, Troy University revised tailgating policies in collaboration with Trojan Athletics and the Troy University Police Department (TUPD). “Tailgating means a ton,” said Kyle George, the athle

This semester, the Office of Career Services is continuing its Workshop Wednesday series, which provides support for students preparing for future career goals and aspirations. The workshops, which began last semester, will cover different career development topics including resumes, LinkedIn, networking and finding jobs. Not only can students learn essential skills during the workshops, but they also have the opportunity to learn about the on-campus resources available t

Anna Grace Tucker hops in with Hawkins. Contributed photo “Cart Jacked: Hop in with Hawkins” features Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr. riding around campus in a golf cart speaking with students on their way to class. This year, though, it’s undergoing a major change. Last year, the show was posted weekly for nine weeks, making a nine-episode series. This year, the episodes will be longer and posted monthly. With this format, more students will have the opportunity to get “ca

At the end of the first month of classes, students are continuing to find resources on campus that can help them flourish in their time at Troy. For some students, these resources are instrumental in their success. When senior Emily Smith arrived at Troy, she quickly found a resource that would support her throughout her college career, and it cost her nothing. Smith, a senior biomedical sciences major from Selma, Alabama, learned about TRIO Student Support Services thro

In the midst of a record-breaking heat wave, students around campus are struggling to stay cool. This heat can be dangerous, especially to those who don’t know how to avoid heat-related injury and illness. Trey Ingram, Troy University Police Department’s (TUPD) emergency manager, said Troy’s biggest threat is the humidity. “This area is very notorious for its hot temperatures and humidity, and this summer is particularly very hot,” Ingram said. “Our bodies cool themselves

Olley Nelson illistration Troy University is deepening its ties to the Miss America tradition through a new scholarship designed to support and encourage young women pursuing a higher education. The collaboration with the Miss America Scholarship Foundation will provide significant financial assistance to both local and state competition winners, expanding opportunities for crown-holders across Alabama. “Troy’s partnership with the Miss America Organization reflects our

Hair, makeup and an evening gown are no strangers to Sarah Jane Houston, 2024 Miss Troy University. After claiming two additional titles since Miss Troy, Houston is now making room in her trophy case for a new crown. This week marks one month into a new reign for Houston. This time, she represents her home state as Miss Georgia Volunteer. Houston says the path to a new crown was not clear at first, but through prayer and mentorship, she was led to leave the Miss America s

A Troy alumna is looking to help more people than ever before with the help of her new Miss Alabama Volunteer crown A Troy alumna was recently crowned Miss Alabama Volunteer 2027 and hopes to utilize her new title to spread the reach of her nonprofit, changing and helping more lives than ever before. Zoie McGuyer was crowned on July 25 but is no stranger to the pageant world. McGuyer has been competing in pageants for about six years, all while founding and running her ow

Swartz teaches in Hawkins Hall room 111, where he was pulled from class. Nate Henderson photo A Troy professor landed in hot water after using a university-branded document to send a letter to the Alabama Representatives and Numeracy Act leaders, criticizing the Alabama Numeracy Act (ANA) Course Review Committee. In the letter, Micah Swartz, an assistant teacher education professor in his second year at Troy, outlined three issues with the ANA Course Review Committee’s prop

A Flock camera watches over International Blvd, Nate Henderson photo Troy University has had a system of Flock cameras on campus for three years, but recent online distress warranted an explanation from university police. The system is made up of 12 cameras spanning Troy’s entire campus, most of them located at the entrances or in the busiest areas for vehicles. According to the Troy University Police Department (TUPD), their job is to monitor who drives in and out of campu

Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. announces his retirement for 2027 Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. announced his new plan to conclude his time as chancellor in 2027. This announcement comes just months after his previous announcement, renouncement and previous plan for his retirement, which was originally delayed by the Board of Trustees. The announcement of Hawkins’ plan came Monday afternoon through an email sent to all Troy students, faculty and staff. Hawkins has b

Over the summer, the Troy University Idea Bank was home to more than 20 aspiring entrepreneurs from across the region. The hands-on academy aims to equip its sixth through 12th grade attendees with skills including business development, branding, marketing, pricing strategies and customer engagement. Participants arrived with varying business concepts, but they all had one end goal: learn more about entrepreneurship. Lynne George, director of the IDEA Bank, said the academy

Troy University Police Department (TUPD) partnered with the Welcome Week committee to teach students the dangers of driving under the influence last Friday. On the quad, TUPD placed students wearing goggles that simulated being under the influence behind the wheel of a golf cart. The hope from the simulation was for students to learn the importance of staying safe when they go out drinking. “It's just to give everybody an idea of how it is to drive drunk and show everybody

Edwards (right) and Grice (left) smile for their headshots. University Relations photos Troy University welcomed a new interim senior vice chancellor at the beginning of this semester, opening the door for a once-retired program director at the Sorrell College of Business to step up as interim dean. Dr. Judson Edwards, formerly the dean of the Sorrell College of Business, is in the first weeks of his time as interim senior vice chancellor for Troy – a position that, for him

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) held Apollo Night, an event where students could showcase their talents, win prizes or sit back and watch the show last Wednesday. During the event, the Trojan Center Ballrooms echoed with the sound of music and laughter as students and organizers shared in lighthearted, audience-driven karaoke along with supportive applause for each performance. Throughout the event, organizers and participants alike shared their experi

Troy has a brand new ambassador program, aiming to give students real-world professional social media experience. The Social Media Ambassador program was designed with inspiration from colleges and universities across the nation. Troy University’s Social Media Manager Elizabeth Ann Glisson said she saw how many universities were utilizing their students to help tell the story of their university. Glisson knew the program was something the marketing team needed to rebuild

Jones (center right) holds the Malone Award, University Relations photo A prestigious award was recently given to one department chair, a surprise deserving of celebration. Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences Dr. Jacqueline D. Jones was awarded Troy University’s Wallace D. Malone, Jr. Distinguished Faculty Award at Troy’s annual faculty convocation. Jones said she was equally shocked and grateful to receive the award.

Troy locals take a look into what local businesses offer Alex Ford photos As part of Welcome Week, Taste of Troy brought a crowd of people downtown last Friday to celebrate the businesses that call Troy home. “Our mission is to get students connected to the business community,” said IDEA Bank Director Lynne George. George said Taste of Troy provided a chance for students to familiarize themselves with the surrounding area and see all the businesses Troy has to offer. In

This year, Troy University’s Student Government Association (SGA) is celebrating Freshman Forum’s 30th anniversary. Freshman Forum is the branch of SGA designed specifically for freshmen to immerse themselves not only in student government but also in their own university. “As we plan events for the year, we are really looking forward to letting the new delegation decide how they want to celebrate 30 years of Freshman Forum,” said Freshman Forum Advisor Olivia Barron. “We wa

Big changes happened to Troy’s scholarship portal over the summer, aiming to give students an easier and faster application experience. The changes were spearheaded by Director of Scholarships Kerrie Hill. The scholarship portal, previously made possible through a software called Blackbaud, is now AwardSpring. “[The university] has been looking around for a new platform for over a year now,” Hill said. After meeting with several different companies, AwardSpring is what th

A long-time Troy staff member and administrator will step into a new role starting this semester. Alicia Bookout, who most recently acted as the associate vice chancellor for financial aid, is taking on a new role as the interim vice chancellor of development and alumni affairs. The change comes at Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr’s direct request – one that Bookout was proud to receive. “It means a great deal to be trusted with [serving in this position],” Bookout said. “Being

This summer, learning didn’t stop for Troy students studying abroad. Students traveled around the globe – from the Sahara Desert to Europe’s historic cities – turning world-famous landscapes into their personal classrooms. Multiple departments traveled across Europe, South America and Asia this year, visiting destinations such as London, Italy, Aregentina, Egypt and China. Each of these experiences offered countless educational opportunities while providing students with mem

What was meant to be a routine post to make others laugh gave one Troy student a few moments of fame on Fox News this summer. “I’ll tell you what, being on Fox News was not on my bingo card for 2026,” said Rachel McDaniel, a nontraditional junior studio art major from Troy, Alabama. “I honestly don’t even watch the news. “If my friends and family hadn’t seen it, I wouldn’t have ever known I was on Fox News.” McDaniel was playing a mobile game of Catan, while ignoring several

As students prepare for the fall semester, the Troy University Police Department (TUPD) is reminding everyone that campus safety starts with awareness. Whether walking alone after a late-night study session or heading home after an evening out, officers say several resources are available to help students stay safe. TUPD Chief George Beaudry said there are several safety resources and services available through the campus police department. One of those offered services is a

Students cuddle puppies during last year's Welcome Week. University Relations photo Welcome Week, the name given to the collection of eight days full of events aimed at welcoming students to Troy University, has officially kicked off. For many incoming students, the events stand as their first opportunity to meet new people, get involved on campus and begin their college experience. “At the heart of Welcome Week is creating a sense of belonging,” said Associate Dean of Stu

A group tailgates for last year's Homecoming game. University Relations photo Gameday tailgating at Troy University will start to look different this upcoming football season. The Troy University Police Department (TUPD) recently collaborated with Troy Athletics and university administration to update the tailgating policy on campus. In a Facebook post, TUPD outlined several new rules, including no fully enclosed tents, no overnight tailgating and no tailgating past kickoff.

Chi Omega sisters gather in front of their house on Sorority Hill Kathryn Clark photo As Trojans rushed across the intersection of Veterans Memorial Drive and Elm Street onto Sorority Hill for Bid Day last Saturday, they marked their very first moments as newly pledged sorority sisters. On a sunny morning full of excitement, memories and sisterhood, sorority members joined hands, donned their colors and threw what they knew with their new sisters for the first time. One of th

A Troy mathematics professor participated in academic research expansion projects in Vietnam and South Korea, last December. Associate Professor of Mathematics, Dr. Hoa Dinh, began this outreach on Dec. 3, 2025,, with a research seminar at Chungbuk National University in Cheongju, South Korea, of which he was the host. He spent the next few days at the International Workshop on Operator Means held in Jeju, South Korea, where he gave a presentation on some of his research in q

Troy’s Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) program has five seniors graduating this spring. The five reflected on their time in the program and the original reason they joined. “The reason that I joined Air Force ROTC is that I've always known that I wanted to serve in the military in some form or fashion,” said Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Smith, the A3A5 Directorate, and a criminal justice major from Greenville, Alabama. “I wanted to follow the footsteps of both my grandfathers, who were

The sounds of excited voices and fluttering wings filled the Troy University Arboretum as students, faculty, staff and community members gathered to learn about one of Alabama’s most misunderstood animals – bats. Attendees were given a brief presentation by Auburn University’s Dr. Matthew Grillot on bats before they were shown one live, after which it was released. The event, held in partnership with the Troy Naturalist Club and guest speaker Dr. Grilliot, aimed to educat

Incoming Trojans will now be celebrating their commitment to Troy University with new gift boxes mailed to them.  Dr. Blake Bedsole, associate vice chancellor of enrollment management, said these boxes will serve as a touch point with committed students who have registered for IMPACT before they attend their session over the summer.  “We thought a nice package in the mail could help keep that excitement and interest up regarding starting their college career with us here at

A Troy University professor will soon be presented with an award from the American Advertising Foundation (AAF), beating out the rest of the Southeast United States. On May 16, Professor Chris Stagl will be awarded the AAF’s Donald G. Hileman Award, which recognizes a college educator as the best in their service andteaching of creative advertising. The nominees were for AAF District 7, which includes Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Louisiana and Mississippi, with the AAF placi

Troy’s John M. Long School of Music collaborated with Ilium Records to hold the Business, Production and Music Expo, better known as “BPM” last Thursday and Friday. Troy students and Pike County high school students joined forces for the two-day expo working toward one shared goal: creating and performing an original song. By the end of the clinic, that goal became a reality with “On My Own,” performed live Friday night. “We started this song from scratch,” said Chase Dawso

From the sound of spinning wheels to kids laughing on the quad, Troy University was full of energy for the fourth annual O’s Cool Bike Ride – an event centered on joy, connection and remembrance. The ride honors Owen Lewis, the 2½-year-old son of Professors Heather Lewis and Onick Lewis, who died unexpectedly from lymphocytic myocarditis in 2022. What began as a way to celebrate Owen’s life has grown into a community-wide event that continues to expand each year. “This is

Workshop Wednesdays are saying farewell until next year. The Troy University Office of Career Services held its final Workshop Wednesday on April 22 with its biggest turnout yet. The workshop titled “Grad School Prep” showed students where to begin their graduate school application process and how to successfully apply to the school of their dreams. “It was an amazing presentation that was really informative and helpful for sophomores and freshmen who want to understand m

The Troy Police Department (TPD) continued its citizens’ police academy Thursday evening, offering participants a behind-the-scenes look at the technology officers use to investigate and solve crimes. During the academy’s fifth session, officers demonstrated how tools like drones and cameras are used in real-world investigations. TPD Detective Colton Johnson demonstrated how drones assist officers in the field, particularly in situations involving missing persons or fleeing

Students and faculty gathered in the Trojan Center Ballrooms Friday morning to hear from award-winning authors Tom Franklin and Beth Ann Fennelly, the 2026 Hall-Waters Prize recipients. The Hall-Waters Prize honors distinguished writers whose work contributes to Southern literature. Franklin and Fennelly are the first duo to receive the award. The husband-and-wife authors previously collaborated on their 2013 historical novel “The Tilted World,” set in Mississippi during Pr

Resumes in hand and confidence on display, students packed the Trojan Center ready to make an impression last Wednesday. The Hall School of Journalism and Communication Career Fair is not just about finding a job, it’s about starting conversations that could lead students to lifelong careers. The event brought students together across all classification levels, offering them a chance to connect directly with industry professionals. Faculty members encouraged attendance to bu

Students gathered in Claudia Crosby Theater to receive awards and recognition for participation in honor societies last Wednesday. Troy University’s Honors Convocation is an annual ceremony to recognize the success and academic achievements of students and faculty throughout the year. A few weeks before the spring semester ends, the convocation allows students to celebrate their successes with their friends and family. “We’re paying tributes to those students, whether

Troy University gymnastics found success at the National Association of Intercollegiate Gymnastics Clubs (NAIGC) competition, placing second overall. Troy’s Kayla Burrell placed second on vault and Amy Treloar placed first on bars with a perfect 10.0 score. The team is coached by Maren Settle, a senior sport management major from Acworth, Georgia, who also serves as club president. She said she started the program three years ago because she wanted to create a space where at

Two Troy professors will soon hold a bike riding event on Troy’s campus to honor their son who passed away at the age of two. O’s Cool Bike Ride and Walk is an annual bike ride in its fourth year, held to memorialize Owen Lewis, the son of Drs. Heather and Onick Lewis. Owen passed away from sudden cardiac death caused bylymphocytic myocarditis – a disease often found in young athletes resulting from inflammation in the heart – on Apr. 28, 2022. “Owen was an energetic, athle

Before Earth Day, celebrated on Apr. 22, was officially recognized for the first time in April 1970, the United States released massive amounts of toxic chemicals and pollution into the air and waterways with little oversight or consequence, which ultimately led to the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency that same year. According to earthday.org, by the end of 1970, the first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency an

The city of Troy will hold its annual TroyFest Art and Craft Festival on Apr. 25 and 26 downtown on the square. According to the festival’s official website, TroyFest is held in honor of Jean Lake and is the premier fine art and craft festival for the central Alabama region. The weekend long show draws upwards of 10,000 people to downtown Troy to celebrate the arts. TroyFest will feature local artists and merchants selling their work, restaurants selling delicious treats a