St. Louis native and Maryville alumnus, Lonnie Folks, ’82, ‘98, has been named director of athletics and recreation at Maryville University.

After graduating in 1982 with a BS in Business Management from the John E. Simon School of Business, Folks served Maryville and the Saints athletic community with distinction for nearly two decades. During his tenure at Maryville, 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.

“Varsity 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. “Lonnie Folks represents the best that Maryville alumni and employees have to offer – passion for education, professional integrity, a drive for excellence and winning and a devotion to their alma mater.”

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to come home and be a part of the exciting things happening at Maryville University,” Folks said. “While 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 Maryville University Athletics Hall of Fame. That same year, Maryville 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 Maryville and Stockton universities, Folks served in numerous leadership capacities with the NCAA and other regional athletic organizations.