For Olivia Napier, years of diligence, creativity and determination have earned her one of Oklahoma State University’s highest distinctions.

Napier has been selected as the College of Education and Human Sciences’ spring 2026 Orange Gown Honoree, a recognition awarded to one distinguished graduating student from each academic college. Honorees wear a distinctive orange gown during commencement ceremonies to symbolize outstanding achievement and represent the best of their graduating class.

“Since I was 13, I have always wanted to be a fashion designer. So I grew up telling myself ‘graduating isn’t optional,’” Napier said. “I have always been a very goal-oriented and achievement driven person, so a lot of my motivation is from actually wanting to go to class and soak up as much information as possible.”

Napier will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Apparel Design and Technology and a minor in entrepreneurship. Alongside her degree, Napier has also completed undergraduate certificates in Business Essentials and 3D Digital Product Creation.

The Oklahoma native approached each assignment and project with the goal of doing her best, a mindset that helped her maintain a 3.9 GPA while balancing the demands of a rigorous academic program.

“I have always wanted to complete everything to the best of my abilities,” Napier said. “I continued to do so through my college career by taking it one assignment or project at a time.”

Napier’s commitment in the classroom did not go unnoticed by faculty.

Dr. Adriana Petrova, an associate professor in the Department of Design and Merchandising, said Napier consistently stood out for her work ethic and ability to excel under pressure. During one particularly demanding semester, Napier was enrolled in two of Petrova’s courses simultaneously and performed at a high level in both.

“I think she has really good judgement on when to ask for help or guidance, and then how to incorporate that guidance,” Petrova said. “She has this outstanding skill for organizing her work, and on top of that she is a nice person.”

Petrova said Napier’s drive is sure to help her as she embarks on a new journey post-graduation. Although the program prepared Napier for a potential career working for an established company, Petrova said Napier has a bright future starting her own business.

“She has big things ahead of her, and I feel like she is so prepared — so driven,” Petrova said.

Napier is especially proud of the growth she experienced during college, where challenging coursework sharpened her time management, comprehension and creative problem-solving skills. Through long hours in the sewing lab, digital design work and study sessions in the library, she built both technical expertise and confidence in her abilities.

“I’m not the loudest person in the room, but I’m not the quietest either,” Napier said. “I have a voice but I use it with a purpose. Everything is intentional.”

She was able to showcase the skills she learned at OSU during the 2026 Euphoria Fashion Show. Her collection was featured in the show with student models displaying Napier’s work on the runway.

Napier’s collection centered around womenswear with seven outfits totaling 14 pieces. Among the garments were two reversible jackets; three dresses; three tops; four skirts; one apron; and one corset.

Napier began planning and sketching her collection in October before developing patterns. The construction phase for her garments lasted from November through the spring semester, with final touches of the garments taking place just before the April show.

Napier drew inspiration from the film "McLintock!" for her senior collection, using it as a lens to explore the balance between masculinity and femininity. Through the pairing of rugged denim with delicate lace, she reinterpreted classic Western aesthetics while blending strength and softness in each design. The collection incorporated details taken directly from the film, including Western hardware and frilled, layered silhouettes reminiscent of women’s garments from the early 1800s.

Sustainability played a central role in Napier’s creative process. She transformed repurposed denim jeans and lace curtains into one-of-a-kind garments, giving discarded materials new life in their final design. She also added seed bead embellishments as a tribute to Native American culture, a connection shared by both the film’s themes and her own heritage.

The resulting collection was both visually striking and deeply personal, combining historical influence, cultural identity and modern sustainability.

“I am very proud of my collection,” Napier said. “In the beginning, this seemed like a daunting task that would never end.

“However, the closer I got to the deadline the more light I could see at the end of the tunnel.”

Napier’s long-term goal is to own a business and sell her own apparel designs, a vision she said was reaffirmed through her studies. After graduation, she will begin working locally as a management trainee at a clothing retailer, where she hopes to gain valuable sales and merchandising and leadership experience.

For Napier, being named an Orange Gown Honoree reflects more than academic success. The title represents years of dedication and is the reward of her hard work recognized during one of life’s most significant stages.

Story By: Annie Ross | annie.ross@okstate.edu