From Humble Beginnings to Higher Education
It’s safe to say that identical twins Darion and Varion Walton share more than just their looks, they share resilience, faith, and determination.
Growing up in a low-income, single-parent home in Jewett, Texas, the twins faced their share of hardships. But together, they made a promise: to build better futures through education and hard work. Today, that promise is paying off.
Now seniors majoring in Business Administration at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), the twins have achieved what no one in their family had before, becoming first-generation college students and academic standouts.
Academic Excellence and Recognition
In early February, both Darion and Varion were inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international business honor fraternity, by SHSU’s College of Business Administration. Out of more than 2,000 business majors, only 80 students received the honor.
The university also nominated the twins to serve as student representatives for the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, a prestigious recognition of their leadership and academic achievements.
“We’re so proud and so blessed”, said Darion.
A Mother’s Sacrifice and a Family’s Faith
Inspired by Hard Work and Love
The brothers never forget the sacrifices made by their mother, Sophia Wilson, who worked multiple jobs to support her four children.
“Our mother had to work multiple jobs just to put food on the table”, Varion said. “Seeing her struggle motivated us to do better.”
Despite both suffering from asthma, the twins stayed active in their high school band, maintained high grades, and joined several student organizations. Their strong Christian faith, instilled by their mother, helped them stay grounded and focused.
Hard Work Pays Off
Early Jobs and Academic Dedication
At just 16, Darion and Varion landed their first jobs together at Brookshire Brothers, a local grocery store. Their dedication earned them promotions to management positions before graduation.
After high school, they both attended Navarro College in Corsicana on scholarship, balancing a heavy course load of 18 credit hours per semester while holding four jobs each, as ambassadors, resident advisers, student center interns, and peer mentors.
Their effort paid off: after three semesters, they both graduated magna cum laude.
“What really motivated us was seeing our mother struggle”, said Varion. “She always told us she wanted us to have a better life than she had.”
Success at Sam Houston State University
Transferring their scholarships to Sam Houston State University, the Walton twins have continued to shine.
- Darion serves as President of the Golden Key International Honour Society, an ambassador for the College of Business Administration, and a graduate of the Emerging Leaders Leadership Cohort.
- Varion leads as President of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and is active in the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Society of Human Resource Development.
The twins also dedicate their time to community service, volunteering for organizations such as Huntsville Hospitality House, Good Shepherd Mission, Faith Family Church, and SHSU’s Bearkat All Paws In day of service.
Looking Ahead
Different Dreams, Same Determination
Although their paths diverge after graduation, both brothers plan to continue their education.
Darion aspires to become a college professor, aiming to inspire students just as his mentors inspired him. “I want to relate lessons to the real world for my students,” he said.
Varion, meanwhile, is drawn to hospital administration, a goal shaped by his childhood experiences. “We were hospitalized a lot for asthma”, he said. “That motivated me to help others facing similar challenges.”
Advice for First-Generation Students
When asked what advice they’d give to others blazing the same trail, the twins emphasized values and perseverance.
“There are different cultures and different opportunities, good and bad,” said Varion. “Always choose the right thing.”
“They’ll be challenges, too,” he added. “Use them to build yourself up and make yourself a better person.”
Darion and Varion Walton’s journey is a story of faith, family, and fortitude. From humble beginnings to academic excellence, they’ve proven that with hard work and heart, any obstacle can become a stepping stone to success.