My MBA Journey: Recognized Alumni Award recipients successful career driven by seized opportunities

Last Updated on May 8, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Illinois State University Honors Distinguished Alumni Dr. Thomas J. Grites for Impactful Career in Education

Dr. Thomas J. Grites, a proud recipient of Illinois State University’s 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award, has been recognized for his dedicated career in education. Grites, who initially worked on the railroad before pursuing a degree in mathematics education, spent 43 years at Stockton University in New Jersey positively impacting thousands of students.

Retiring as an assistant provost in 2020, Grites continues to make a difference in the lives of students as an advisor and adjunct professor. His passion for helping transfer students led him to design a seminar specifically tailored to their needs. Throughout his career, Grites has been honored with awards from prestigious organizations such as NACADA, the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, and the American College Personnel Association.

Reflecting on his accomplishments, Grites expressed pride in the impact he has had on students and their educational journeys. Other notable alumni award winners include a professor at Illinois State University and the retired President and CEO of Special Olympics Illinois.

Nominations are currently open for the 2025 Alumni Awards, with a deadline of July 31, 2024. Illinois State University encourages the community to recognize outstanding alumni like Dr. Thomas J. Grites who have made a lasting impact in their fields and on the lives of others.