By Jaden Jumpp, Contributing Writer
Assistant Director of Student and Family Engagement, Vyron Folds, wants every Saint Leo University student to remember to live their best lives throughout their college years.
For Folds, serving others has always been at the center of his life. After a career in the military and spending time in corporate America, he knew he wanted a role where his work made a real difference. That search led him to higher education, and today he serves at Saint Leo.
“I wanted to try to narrow that down and make it more tangible than I can see,” Folds said. “Seeing young men and women come into college at 18 and then flourish by the time they graduate is what really attracted me to student affairs,” Folds elaborated.
Although his title suggests a supporting role, Folds sees himself as a leader. He describes his position as hands-on and rewarding, from helping organize events to guiding students through challenges.
“I’m touching lives. I’m making a positive influence on individuals,” he said.
What he enjoys most is connecting with students on a personal level. He calls those moments “life one-on-one” talks. Moreover, one student recently asked him how to support her boyfriend as he prepares for the Marines. “That trust of me to give her that information is priceless,” Folds said.
Outside of work, Folds’ hobbies might surprise people. He owns 26 pairs of cowboy boots, collects model airplanes, and loves to fish. These interests help him find balance after years of being a self-described workaholic.
“I had to learn that, unfortunately, if I were to walk out this door and fall and pass away, I would be replaced in a matter of time. That enabled me to shut off and spend time with my family,” he said.
His goals for Saint Leo students and families are clear. He wants college to be “the best years of their lives,” while making sure parents know their children are safe and supported.
If he could give students one piece of advice, it would be simple but powerful: “Live your best life. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Get your academics, but outside of that, have as much fun and many experiences as you possibly can.”
