Lauren Whitley: A leader, a mentor and a model of resilience
Some students shine because of their achievements. Others shine because of their character. Lauren Whitley, graduating with a degree in organizational leadership and a minor in education, shines for both. She is a student who shows up fully — for her peers, for her faculty, for her community and for herself. Her time at the College of Business has been defined by service, scholarship and strength that carried her through one of the most challenging chapters of her life.
After graduation, Whitley is stepping into a new role as a client services representative at Fisher Investments — a position that aligns with her strengths in communication, relationship‑building and problem‑solving. It’s a role that will allow her to continue supporting others, just as she has done throughout her time at OSU.
Whitley is known across the College of Business as someone who goes above and beyond. She is the kind of student who strives to elevate her every endeavor. Whether she’s supporting a classroom as a teaching assistant, mentoring peers or stepping into leadership roles in her sorority, Whitley brings intention, empathy and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.
Whitley’s work as a TA began with an interest in mentorship. Early in her OSU experience, she was a double major in Business and Education and reached out to Dr. Carla Mandell for guidance. That connection changed everything. Through mentorship, Whitley discovered her passion for teaching and supporting students, becoming a TA, who faculty describe as exceptional.
She assists students during class, meets with them outside of class and supports faculty in ensuring ADA Title II compliance. Whitley even mentors other TAs, helping them navigate their roles with confidence and care. Her work on the Student Success Team further expanded her impact, allowing her to support students academically and personally.
Whitley embodies the spirit of learning by doing, a hallmark of the College of Business. She doesn’t just complete tasks — she invests in people, and of course herself:
Whitley’s college journey took an unexpected turn in December 2024, when she tore her ACL. What she didn’t know at the time was that she also had pneumonia. After her initial procedure, she developed a septic infection that required multiple emergency surgeries. Her recovery stretched over six long months — a period marked by pain, uncertainty and physical limitations.
But it was also a period of growth.
Despite the surgeries, the recovery and the emotional toll, Whitley continued her coursework. She stay enrolled; she excelled. That term, she completed 20 credits and earned straight As.
It was a moment that revealed her strength to herself. “I probably grew the most that I ever have in college,” she said, a reminder that leadership is not just about what you accomplish, but how you rise when everything feels impossible.
Whitley is quick to express gratitude for what played meaningful roles in her success: Her family, her sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, the College of Business, and mentors like Dr. Mandell and Kerry Kincanon, who helped Whitley navigate exploratory studies. Their support helped her stay grounded, motivated and connected.
Her gratitude reflects her character, and she says that Oregon State has given her “everything and more.” But the truth is, she has given just as much back – as a TA, as a mentor. She completed internships with State Farm Insurance in sales and investments and with CED Operations and Market Research, gaining hands‑on experience that strengthened her leadership and analytical skills.
She has strengthened classrooms, supported peers, uplifted faculty, and shown what it means to lead with compassion and courage.
Whitley’s story is one of resilience, generosity and unwavering commitment — and the College of Business is proud to celebrate her.
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