Oklahoma State University and Spears School of Business assistant professor of professional practice Aaron Light were both recognized as winners of the 2026 EAB Experiential Learning Awards, which identified institutions and faculty who advance work-integrated learning through real-world, employer-informed experiences and accessible job simulations.

Thanks in large part to the Eastin Center for Career Readiness, OSU earned the top score among all schools in the country. In fact, the scoring gap between No. 1 OSU and second place, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, was as large as the gap between No. 2 and No. 10.

Schools and faculty were judged on the number of students participating in and completing experiential learning opportunities, how well the institution supports access to career-connected learning and the level of faculty participation in delivering these experiences.

Light was one of 14 faculty members nationwide recognized with the EAB Experiential Learning Award. He serves as an Eastin Fellow in addition to his faculty role in the Spears Business Department of Management.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition and proud to be part of a university that prioritizes experiential learning and career readiness,” said Light. “Creating opportunities for students to gain practical experience and build confidence beyond the classroom is the type of work that really drives me. I’m especially grateful to the Eastin Center for Career Readiness for their partnership and commitment to student success, and to Harrison Bass and the team at Forage for their ongoing support of both myself and Oklahoma State University.”

Light, who spent 11 years in leadership positions guiding sales and account management teams at ISN, now teaches career planning and professional development courses at Spears Business. He earned his undergraduate degree and MBA from OSU.

Light was nominated for the award by representatives at Forage, a subsidiary of EAB, formerly known as the Education Advisory Board. Forage works with employers and schools to create job simulations that help students build career skills, visibility and confidence.

The Eastin Center’s goal is to help Spears Business students land jobs and begin impactful careers. More than just mock interviews and resume reviews, Eastin Center career coaches help students gain the skills needed to engage in real-world experiences and reach their own potential through job and internship searches, career fairs, interview prep, career competency building and professional mentoring.