Alumni of the year to be recognized at Hoco game

Young Cutter illustration

Amidst this year’s homecoming festivities, Troy University is set to honor three Alumni of the Year and one Honorary Alumnus of the Year. “It is truly an honor to recognize these members of the Troy family, who in true Trojan spirit, are making a difference through service to their communities, their careers and Troy University,” said Director of Alumni Affairs Faith Byrd in a Troy.Today article. “Through their accomplishments and service, they continue to represent TROY well, and we are excited to honor them in this way.”

This year’s Alumni of the Year recipients are Derek Ellington, Alison Scott Wingate Hosp and Dr. Kathy L. Murphy. Jason Jones will be recognized as an Honorary Alumnus of the Year.

Derek Ellington is a graduate from the class of 1992. An Enterprise native, Ellington was a linebacker for the football team, president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and served as a senator and clerk for the Student Government Association. Now, he expresses his gratitude and says he is proud to represent a school that has meant so much to him.

“I am so grateful to Troy University Family for selecting me for this prestigious recognition,” Ellington said. “It seems like yesterday that I was a student on campus in the Sorrell College of Business trying to figure out my career journey.

“I come from humble beginnings in my hometown of Enterprise, Alabama, better known as ‘The City of Progress.’ This is a full circle moment for me to enjoy the honor from the University that equipped me for lifelong success. I am truly honored.”

Ellington graduated with a double major in business administration and computer science, and he has a master’s degree in public and private management from Birmingham Southern. Today, he serves as founder and CEO of a business consulting firm, helping businesses across the globe.

Jason Jones, this year’s honorary alumnus, is a native of Brundidge, Alabama. Even though his time at Troy was short, Jones’ continued work with Troy Athletics has earned him this recognition.

“At first, I was shocked,” Jones said. “After the shock wore off, appreciative is the word that comes to mind.

“I have found my love for Troy through athletics, but it’s also because of the University being here that I’m able to have a career here. Though there’s no diploma on my wall from Troy, I wouldn’t have a wall without Troy University being here.”

He is the owner of Jones Medical Supply,, a deacon at First Baptist Church and co-founder and Vice President of Trojans Together Collective. Through his business, Jones has helped arrange over 100 NIL deals for Troy athletes. He remains very active in the community.

Alison Hosp is a two-time graduate from Troy, earning her bachelor’s in 1998 and her master’s in 1999. Over the years, she has served as a director in communications and public relations for several organizations. Today, she holds the title of Vice President for the Alabama Retail Association.

Dr. Kathy Murphy graduated from Troy in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in education. Murphy was a dedicated scholar. During her time at Troy, she was inducted into five honor societies, received the Outstanding Senior Award and graduated magna cum laude.

Murphy went on to get her master’s degree from Auburn Montgomery and her doctorate in education from Auburn University. Today, she serves as President of Gadsden State Community College.

The alumni will be recognized at this year’s homecoming game in an on-the-field presentation at halftime.