Rocio Toon describes herself as a “lifelong learner,” a phrase that has shaped both her personal and professional journey. Her curiosity stretches far beyond the classroom. She’s the kind of person who picks up new skills simply because she wants to understand more about the world around her. Rocio has learned American Sign Language and even taught herself how to sew. “I love learning how the world and others work,” she said. That curiosity has guided her decisions, deepened her faith and opened doors she once only imagined.
Before joining the Wildcat community, Rocio spent six years as a high school science teacher. In 2023, she moved to Abilene, Texas, when her husband was stationed at Dyess Air Force Base. She formally joined Abilene Christian University in 2024 as a financial aid counselor and then transitioned to her current role as a financial aid advisor.
After settling into a new city and season of life, she began reflecting on the future of her career. “I wanted to advance my career,” Rocio explained. “But it’s hard to do that when you’re constantly moving.” Determined to continue growing, she began researching programs that would build on her educational background while preparing her for long-term opportunities.
Shaping Her Future With ACU
During her time in the classroom, Rocio developed a growing interest in educational data. She became increasingly curious about how teacher and student performance is measured, how testing outcomes are evaluated and how patterns can reveal opportunities for improvement. She saw firsthand how numbers could tell a story and how that story could shape meaningful change.
As she continued exploring her options, Abilene Christian University’s online Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics stood out. The more she read about the curriculum, the more it felt like a natural fit. The program offered a way to combine her passion for education with her interest in systems and strategy. Business analytics would allow her to sharpen her understanding of data while applying those insights across industries. She enrolled in the online MBA program and has been moving forward ever since, confident she chose a path aligned with both her skills and her calling.
Celebrating Community
When asked about her favorite part of ACU, Rocio did not hesitate: community. “I love to see how far ACU goes to build community for faculty and students,” she said. Through group chats with her MBA cohort, she has formed meaningful relationships that extend beyond coursework. They talk about assignments and deadlines, share prayer requests and encourage one another through challenges. Even in an online setting, she has experienced connections that feel personal and lasting.
Another aspect Rocio values is the opportunity to grow spiritually while pursuing academic excellence. Reflecting on her undergraduate experience at another institution, Rocio recalled feeling that discussions were often centered on problems without pointing towards a solution. “I kept asking myself, ‘Where is God in all of this? Where is my faith in all of this?” she said. At ACU, she found a different approach. “ACU focuses on using faith and God to solve problems and provide solutions. That has expanded my faith for sure.” For Rocio, learning is not separated from belief. Instead, the two strengthen each other.
Applying What She’s Learned and Preparing for the Future
Rocio’s commitment to growth extends beyond the university. She serves on the board of the Dyess Spouses Club, where she helps foster connections among military families. Her coursework in business analytics has expanded her understanding of how organizations function and how data can be used to identify opportunities for improvement. “What I’m learning in business analytics helps us ask better questions. How do we improve communication? How do we streamline payments? How do we fund events more efficiently?” she explained.
Through her studies, Rocio has come to see that analytics is more than collecting evidence. It is a tool for service. Data, when used thoughtfully, can strengthen schools, support organizations and bring clarity to complex systems. That perspective has reshaped how she approaches both volunteer leadership and professional goals.
As she continues in the program, Rocio remains open to wherever God leads. “I hope to use my MBA and the things I’ve learned at ACU to get a role in improving business operations, whether it is in corporate training or systems administration,” she shared. She has also completed the required coursework to earn her Certificate in Business Analytics. The certificate emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making across industries and explores topics such as data mining, data management and reporting. Each course builds on the next, equipping her with practical skills she can apply in real-world settings.
Advice For Students Interested in Business Analytics
When asked what she would say to students considering a career in analytics, Rocio’s encouragement was clear. “They should definitely do it. You’re not just going to earn your degree. You’re going to make friends. You’re going to find family. You’re going to build a community.” She expressed gratitude for the Christ-centered environment she has experienced at ACU. “That’s something you can’t buy back,” she said.
For this lifelong learner, education is more than coursework. It is a pathway to serve others with excellence and integrity. It is an opportunity to turn data into clarity, systems into support and community into family. At ACU, Rocio Toon continues to grow as a leader, a student and a servant. Through every class discussion, every late-night assignment and every conversation with a classmate, she is preparing not only for a career in analytics but for a life marked by purpose. If you share a similar passion for growth, consider exploring ACU’s online programs. For more information about this program and other opportunities, visit our website.
