Brian Davis Honored with the Paul Draper 'Spirit of Marion' Award

The City of Marion is pleased to recognize Officer Brian Davis as the 2026 recipient of the Paul Draper "Spirit of Marion" Award.

The award recognizes a City of Marion employee who best represents dedication to public service, combined with an exceptional work ethic, humility, a sense of humor and a sincere desire to see the City team and its members succeed. The winner is selected by a vote of City employees.

The award was presented on Tuesday, May 5, by Mayor Nick AbouAssaly and City Manager Ryan Waller during an employee luncheon in conjunction with Public Service Recognition Week.

"Each year, it is an honor to give the 'Spirit of Marion' Award to an outstanding employee who puts forth extra effort and exemplifies our 'reaching higher' mantra," said Mayor Nick AbouAssaly. "Marion's public servants are leaders in their respective fields and set the highest standards of professional excellence."

Brian Davis has been with the Marion Police Department since 2007 and currently serves as the school resource officer for the Marion Independent School District.

Throughout his career, Officer Davis has been a mentor and advocate for at-risk youth. He has built trust, fostered positive relationships and made a lasting impact on the lives of the students he serves.

A natural leader, he has led multiple ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) drills, ensuring that staff and students are prepared for emergency situations. In collaboration with other City departments, Officer Davis worked to improve pedestrian safety around Vernon Middle School.

"Officer Davis is more than a law enforcement officer," said City Manager Ryan Waller. "He is a mentor, a protector and a role model and we are proud to have him as a member of Team Marion."

The award is named for former City Council member Paul Draper. Draper was a great supporter of Marion's progress and a tireless advocate for the community for decades. He served on the Civil Service Commission for 25 years and was on the Marion City Council from 2012 to 2020. Draper passed away in February 2020, and his legacy lives on, in part through this award.