Pyles selected as 2018 Alumni Leadership Award recipient

W. Brent Pyles

IRONTON, Ohio – Ohio University Southern has selected W. Brent Pyles of Ironton as the 2018 recipient of the Dr. Dan Evans Alumni Leadership Award. The award recognizes a graduate of the Southern Campus who exemplifies positive leadership in the community. 

Pyles is an Ironton resident and earned his bachelor of business administration degree from Ohio University in 1976. His career spans more than 40 years in human resources and operations in industry in roles of supervisor, manager and corporate director. Pyles is a former Ironton City Council member and is active in numerous civic and charitable groups. He is the 2018 Grand Marshal for the 150th Ironton Memorial Day Parade.

Nicole Pennington, dean of the Southern Campus, presented Pyles with the award at the Spring 2018 Graduate Recognition Ceremony. “Alumni like Brent Pyles show the spirit of leadership and community service we strive to impart to our students,” Pennington said.

Pyles was nominated for the honor by two faculty members who are associated with him in community organizations. Associate Professor Ella Jones said Pyles “has been a leader in his business positions and in his civic volunteer roles. (He) is a proud OU Southern alumni.” 

Pyles’ service to the Memorial Day Parade Committee and work with groups like Lions Clubs International and service on City Council were among the reasons leading to his nomination, according to Mary Lou Malone, director of information technology, CTCH and community education for the campus, said.

Pyles is married to Lou (Cogan) Pyles, a long-time business owner and civic leader in Ironton.

The Dr. Dan Evans Alumni Leadership award has been given annually since 2009 to a Southern Campus graduate.