91ΧΤΕΔ

91ΧΤΕΔ MPress

Lonnie Folks Named Director of Athletics and Recreation

Lonnie Folks - alumnus, former athlete and coach - returns to 91ΧΤΕΔ

St. Louis native and 91ΧΤΕΔ alumnus, Lonnie Folks, ’82, β€˜98, has been named director of athletics and recreation at 91ΧΤΕΔ.

After graduating in 1982 with a BS in Business Management from the John E. Simon School of Business, Folks served 91ΧΤΕΔ and the Saints athletic community with distinction for nearly two decades. During his tenure at 91ΧΤΕΔ, Folks rose through the ranks to become assistant director of athletics and head coach for women’s soccer and softball, securing four conference titles and two conference tournament titles. He also served as the head women’s basketball coach and sports information director.

‘I consider this program sacred cargo and will treat it accordingly.’

Folks continued his successful career at Stockton University where he has worked since 1999. There, he was director of athletic operations, director of athletics and recreation and director for student affairs operations.

β€œVarsity athletics, club sports and recreation are a vital component of the on-campus student experience, and I can’t think of anyone better equipped to lead our athletics department,” said President Mark Lombardi, PhD. β€œLonnie Folks represents the best that 91ΧΤΕΔ alumni and employees have to offer – passion for education, professional integrity, a drive for excellence and winning and a devotion to their alma mater.”

β€œI’m thrilled for the opportunity to come home and be a part of the exciting things happening at 91ΧΤΕΔ,” Folks said. β€œWhile I’ve been away from the physical campus community, the work and growth here have remained important to me. I’d like to thank President Lombardi and the leadership of student life for their confidence in me – I consider this program sacred cargo and will treat it accordingly.”

As a former student-athlete, Folks was a standout member of the Saint’s men’s soccer and baseball teams and was named Freshman of the Year in 1978 for soccer. As a coach, he was a two-time SLIAC Coach of the Year in both women’s soccer and softball. In 2009, Folks was inducted into the 91ΧΤΕΔ Athletics Hall of Fame. That same year, 91ΧΤΕΔ created the Lonnie Folks Award, an award that honors former student-athletes, coaches or administrators who exemplify good spirit, sportsmanship, stewardship and service.

In addition to his significant contributions at 91ΧΤΕΔ and Stockton universities, Folks served in numerous leadership capacities with the NCAA and other regional athletic organizations.