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Mount Vernon Nazarene University Assistant Athletic Director Paul McNeal has been recognized for his work strengthening relationships between local law enforcement and the community.
McNeal received the Victoria Allen Civilian Leadership Award on September 14 during the 2026 Law Enforcement Training Symposium in Dayton. The annual symposium is hosted by the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy, a division of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, and brings together law enforcement professionals from across the state for training, professional development and recognition.
The 2026 symposium ran September 13 through 15 and featured more than 50 workshops led by experts from Ohio and beyond.
The Victoria Allen Civilian Leadership Award honors a servant leader who works to unite residents and local law enforcement for the betterment of the community.
McNeal was recognized for his efforts connecting people, institutions and public-safety agencies throughout Mount Vernon and Knox County. A Navy veteran and former teacher and coach, McNeal has continued his community-service work through his role at MVNU.
MVNU President Dr. Carson D. Castleman said McNeal made community engagement with local law enforcement a priority from the beginning of his time at the university.
“From Day One, Paul met with me and said, ‘You know, we really need to be proactive and be ambassadors for our law enforcement here in town,’” Castleman said.
Castleman said McNeal has since led MVNU’s efforts to organize one or two major events each year honoring local law enforcement.
One of McNeal’s key community efforts has been his partnership with the Mount Vernon Police Department’s Police and Kids United, or PAK United, program, which works to build relationships between law enforcement officers and local youth.
McNeal has helped strengthen the program by identifying venues, securing community partners, coordinating logistics and helping address challenges associated with organizing events.
Mount Vernon Police Assistant Chief Andy Burns said McNeal’s commitment to the community has made him an important partner for the department.
“There are a number of things that stand out about Paul,” Burns said. “But in addition to being head and shoulders above most people physically, he rises above most people in general because of his heart for the community.”
McNeal has also helped establish and support events at MVNU recognizing local police officers, firefighters and EMS personnel. Those gatherings provide opportunities for first responders to interact with community members while strengthening connections between local public-safety agencies and the university.
His community involvement extends beyond law enforcement. McNeal has supported Special Olympics events, youth outreach, civic gatherings, the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, downtown First Friday activities, charitable fundraising and nonprofit partnerships benefiting Knox County families.
His community service has also led to his recognition as one of Mount Vernon’s Volunteers of the Year.
Castleman described McNeal’s approach to community service in terms of connection and collaboration.
“They are what make a university better,” Castleman said. “Paul has done an outstanding job, and Mount Vernon Nazarene University and Mount Vernon, Ohio, are blessed to have him as a part of our communities.”
McNeal’s award was one of several recognitions presented during this year’s Law Enforcement Training Symposium. Mount Vernon Police Chief Robert K. Morgan was also recognized during the ceremony, receiving the Blue Line Award for his contributions to Ohio law enforcement.
