Grace Staten ’25 named Summer 2025 Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Business

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – There’s more than one way to be an Islander. Just ask Grace Staten ’25, the College of Business Outstanding Islander Graduate for Summer 2025. Though she never stepped foot in a classroom on the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi campus, her Islander journey was no less meaningful. From more than 200 miles away, Staten proved that being an Islander isn’t about location — it is about drive, dedication, and heart.

Staten, who officially earns a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting on Saturday, Aug. 9, has already had the chance to celebrate her achievement. As one of many Islanders who attend classes at the RELLIS Academic Alliance (RELLIS), Staten participated in a commencement ceremony at RELLIS in May, since the campus does not host a summer ceremony.

“I chose Texas A&M-Corpus Christi because of the unique opportunity to take classes in the Bryan-College Station area,” Staten said. “I may not have had classes in Corpus Christi, but I can truly say I’m proud to be an Islander.”

Staten’s passion for accounting was sparked long before she started her studies. Growing up, she admired her aunt, who earned a master’s degree in accounting from Texas A&M University and went on to build a successful career. Inspired by that example, and driven by a love for numbers and problem-solving, Staten charted her own course in the field.

“Accountants play such a vital role in helping businesses make informed decisions,” Staten said. “I want to leave a meaningful impact in the business world.”

Beyond the classroom, Staten served as president of the Student Accounting Society at RELLIS, an experience she says transformed her personally and professionally. Through networking opportunities, leadership responsibilities, and collaborations with faculty and peers, Staten developed confidence and resilience she never imagined when she first started.

“It’s the people that truly made this place special,” she said. “The friends I met along the way have become lifelong companions. They’ve walked beside me through every stage of life as an Islander, and looking back now, I wouldn’t trade those connections for anything.”

Despite her success, Staten’s time as an Islander was not without its struggles. During her senior year, the Dallas native’s mind often wandered home, where her mother had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Balancing academics, leadership roles, and frequent trips to be with her family tested her resolve.

“With the support of my peers, professors, and mentors, I was able to navigate that difficult time,” Staten said. “Their guidance allowed me to be present for my family while also succeeding in my studies. That support system made all the difference.”

One mentor in particular, Dr. Lawrence Smith, Professor of Accounting, had the greatest impact and played a pivotal role in Staten’s success.

“From the moment I entered Dr. Smith’s class, he saw potential in me that I hadn’t recognized in myself,” she said. “Dr. Smith has always taken the time to get to know me on a personal level, offering guidance both academically and in my personal life. He has pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone, encouraging me to take on leadership roles, and engage in opportunities that I would have never had otherwise. His strong belief in my abilities and constant support have motivated me to strive for excellence, not just as a student, but as a person.”

While Staten credits Smith for her success, the professor is quick to note that it was Staten’s talent and drive which played a major role in her achievements.

“Grace is gifted with academic ability and leadership potential; she put them both to good use,” Smith said. “I think she surprised herself by how much she accomplished, both academically and in leadership. Her accomplishments have prepared her for a successful career.”

A member of the Dean’s List and recipient of the Accounting Excellence Award from the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, Staten also earned the Chancellor’s Award for RELLIS. She also credits the Step A Scholarship for helping her stay focused on academics.

“Receiving a scholarship eased the financial burden of tuition and allowed me to fully dedicate myself to learning,” Staten said. “It reminded me that others believed in my potential.”

Among her many memories as an Islander, one stands out: receiving her Islander Ring.

“Wearing that ring symbolizes all the hard work, dedication, and perseverance I’ve put into earning this degree,” Staten said. “It represents my journey, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the personal and academic growth I’ve experienced along the way.”

Staten’s exploration of accounting is just beginning. She plans to pursue a Master of Science in Accounting at the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University and earn her CPA license, carrying the lessons and spirit of an Islander wherever her path leads next.

“I’ve gained confidence and become more independent,” Staten said. “I’ve faced challenges but have given myself an opportunity to be more than I ever thought I could be.”