Troy chancellor to keynote 2026 Purple Heart Salute

The event, which will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Daphne Civic Center and is free and open to the public, honors the men and women wounded in combat while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, recognizing their sacrifice and continued contributions to the country.

Dr. Hawkins, who has been TROY’s chancellor since 1989 and is the longest-serving CEO of a public university in the country, was honored by the organization last year as Patriot of the Year for his lifelong dedication to higher education in the state, as well as his service as a United States Marine Corps officer during the Vietnam War. Dr. Hawkins is a two-time Purple Heart recipient.

Dr. Hawkins 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. For his combat duty, he received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and a citation from the Korean Marine Corps.

Under Dr. Hawkins’ leadership, Troy University has become internationally recognized for its commitment to serving military students and veterans through flexible degree programs, campus partnerships and a strong emphasis on leadership development.

Dr. Andrew Del Gaudio, national senior vice commander and former Alabama state commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, will also deliver keynote remarks during the event, which will include veteran-focused vendors and community partners, the presentation of honors and recognition of Purple Heart recipients, and community engagement activities supporting veterans and their families.