 He worked with the Board of Regent's economic development office to identify expansion opportunities with the private sector, government, and USG supporters, addressing Georgia's workforce needs.Staton led efforts (2014–2015) to create the Georgia Film Academy, to support the workforce needs of Georgia's burgeoning film and digital entertainment industry.In April 2014, University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby announced the appointment of Staton as interim President of Valdosta State University.