A young woman in an orange graduation cap and gown, smiling and standing in a brick hallway. She is wearing multiple honor cords, a medal, and a graduation stole with 'Class of 2025' on the tassel.

Nutritional sciences student named College of Education and Human Sciences Orange Robe honoree

Monday, May 5, 2025

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu

Victoria Smith at CEHS awards Leadership and service.

Those two words reflect Victoria Smith’s time at Oklahoma State University. In recognition of her achievements, the Houston native has been selected as the College of Education and Human Sciences Spring 2025 Orange Gown honoree, a distinctive and high-profile commencement recognition for academic excellence.

Smith is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences with an option in dietetics. She was also named a 2024-25 OSU Outstanding Senior by the Oklahoma State University Alumni Association.

Smith’s extensive leadership experience on campus includes serving as CEHS Senator in the OSU Student Government Association, OSU SGA Board of Regents Liaison, CEHS Ambassador, CEHS Emerging Leaders Mentee and Mentor, OSU Alumni Association Student Network Board Member, OSUAA Executive Internal Director and OSUAA President’s Partner. Through these positions, she championed student engagement, advocacy, and inclusivity for CEHS and the broader student body.

Additionally, Smith was a 2023-24 Wentz Research Scholar for her project studying dietary fiber and how it impacts a measure of impulsivity and the microbiome. Smith says the presentation of her findings was a rewarding moment that reinforced her passion for scientific inquiry and its role in improving health outcomes.

During her time as a dietetics sciences student, Dr. Shirley F. Evans – teaching associate professor for the Department of Nutritional Sciences – has been a source of support.

“Her kindness, encouragement, and belief in my potential have meant so much,” Smith said.

Evans applauded Smith for her efforts, noting that she has consistently exceeded expectations.

“Not only is Victoria very committed to doing her best academically, but she is also committed to the direction of her future professional goals. It is Victoria’s desire to enter the health care field, particularly focusing on being a dietitian,” Evans said. “To broaden her experience in this area, she has attained a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and worked as a dietary aide in Kingwood Pines Psychiatric Hospital on a paid summer internship.”

The internship is noteworthy, as such positions typically require a completed undergraduate degree. During the internship, Smith honed her skills in dietary compliance and patient care in a clinical setting.

In her time outside the classroom, Smith is heavily involved in volunteerism, serving 400 hours in the Stillwater community and beyond.

“At a personal level, Victoria is a genuinely compassionate person who has volunteered her services on many occasions,” Evans said.

Smith says service is a cornerstone of her identity, reflected by her collegiate experiences.

On campus, Smith volunteers her time to the OSU Athletics where she assists student-athletes in optimizing dietary strategies for achieving peak performance, and the OSU Student Volunteer Center. She is also a regular volunteer with Our Daily Bread Food and Resource Center, and has served as the national president for the Children of the American Revolution not-for-profit organization.

Smith will continue her education at OSU. She begins studying for her master’s degree this summer and will conduct thesis research focusing on improving health outcomes in children, parents and families.

She will also obtain a graduate certificate in nonprofit management, a field she has been drawn to through her 400 hours of service in the Stillwater community and beyond.

After completing her master’s degree, Smith intends to practice as a registered dietician, utilizing nutrition as preventative medicine to support individuals’ health before chronic diseases develop.

She dreams of owning her own business and nonprofit that serves veterans and underserved communities, helping families find a sense of home through nutrition by guiding them in budgeting, shopping and meal prepping.

“The College of Education and Human Sciences has taught me the importance of home and hospitality, and I hope to empower others to create nourishing spaces for themselves and their families,” Smith said.

Evans said that Smith’s demonstrated commitment to academics, leadership, engagement and dietetics has made a positive impact on OSU.

“I have no doubt that this will continue throughout her future academic and professional endeavors. Whatever path she chooses, I know Victoria will excel,” Evans said.

Smith’s selection as the Orange Gown honoree is a reflection of her unwavering commitment to both her academic growth and dedication to serving others, and her involvement in leadership roles, research and community service has shaped her understanding of the field of nutrition and refined her ability to adapt, persevere and lead in challenging situations.

“My focus has never been on the accolades, but I believe the work I’ve done on campus and in the community has been impactful," Smith said. "It is humbling to be selected for this honor and to have the college recognize and partner with me in acknowledging my vision makes what I have achieved all the more meaningful.”