April 23, 2026

Receiving the Texas A&M University 2026 Student Employee of the Year Award is truly an honor, and I’m deeply grateful for what this recognition represents.

Thank you to my team (Samuel Merriweather, Danisha Stern, Breana Grimes, Sherice Perkins, Aniya P., Luis Galvan, and Pablo Pineda IV) for seeing my work, believing in me, and nominating me for this award. Your support has meant more than words can fully capture. I’m also thankful for the previous staff members (Jaelyn H., Lance Bumgardner, and Cesar Rivera) I’ve connected with along the way, whose encouragement, example, and contributions helped create a path for me to grow.

To every mentor, supervisor, coworker, friend, student, and supporter who has poured into me, challenged me, or simply cheered me on – thank you.

This award is a reminder that meaningful work is never done alone. I’m grateful to be part of a community that continues to teach me the value of service, leadership, and showing up with purpose.

Shanta Stiles