Opportunities to lead, serve and build community helped shape Jacob Strode’s Stanislaus State experience and inspired him to help others find a sense of belonging.
A Turlock native and graduate of Turlock High School, Strode chose Stan State for its setting, its professional opportunities and its place in the heart of California.
“I loved the scenery, the professional opportunities associated with our University as well as its prime location in California,” Strode said.
As a business administration major with a concentration in operations management, Strode found some of his most meaningful experiences through Student Affairs and Greek life. His work as a student assistant gave him a front-row seat to the University’s efforts to welcome new students, answer questions and help Warriors begin their college journeys with confidence.
“My time working for Student Affairs and as a brother of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity” stands out most, Strode said.
Those experiences also helped him grow into a more confident and service-minded leader. Strode said joining an organization changed the course of his college experience by helping him build friendships, sharpen his leadership skills and discover the value of community.
“Working up the courage to join an organization made my college life memorable and shaped me into the leader I am today,” Strode said. “Make friends now, because they will last for a lifetime.”
Strode credits Donovan Orozco with making a meaningful impact on his development as a student and professional.
“Donovan Orozco, due to his great work as a mentor and supervisor,” Strode said.
That mentorship, along with his own experience helping students navigate campus, taught Strode one of the most powerful lessons of his Stan State journey: empathy.
“I learned how to properly empathize with peers, colleagues and friends,” Strode said. “Experiencing a situation is the best learning tool to help others.”
His dedication stood out to Miranda Stokes, senior administrative analyst in Student Affairs, who nominated him for recognition.
“Jacob demonstrates what it means to be a Warrior day in and day out,” Stokes said. “During his time on campus supporting New Student Orientation and Transitions — through all of its changes — he’s shown adaptability, leadership and a strong commitment to helping students succeed at Stan State.”
Stokes said Strode consistently brought determination, professionalism and Warrior pride to his work, helping shape how new students are welcomed to campus.
“No matter the challenge, he steps up and leads with confidence and care,” Stokes said.
After graduation, Strode plans to pursue work as a personal trainer while also using the skills he gained in operations management to support businesses in the Central Valley.
“I am going to use my studies in Operations Management to help businesses in the Central Valley continuously improve,” Strode said.
For Strode, the lesson he hopes other students remember is simple but powerful: college becomes more meaningful when students are willing to take initiative and make the most of the time they have.
#StanGrad File
Name
Jacob Strode
Hometown
Turlock, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Operations Management Concentration
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“My time working for Student Affairs and as a brother of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity.”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“Donovan Orozco due to his great work as a mentor and supervisor.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“College is what you make it. Change doesn't happen without a change in your habits. Make the most of your time at Stan State because it comes to an end all too soon.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2026. Read more StanGrad profiles.
