More behind the suit: Meet GVSU's new director of housing and residence life

Grand Valley’s new Director of Housing and Residence Life Kyle Boone had a first day unlike any other: a rush of adrenaline to sign on Zoom meetings and virtually meet the Housing and Residence Life team.

Boone began his duties on July 20 and comes to Grand Valley from Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) in Atlanta, where he was the director of Student Housing and Residential Education. Andy Beachnau, associate vice provost for Student Affairs, had served as director of Housing and Residence Life since 1994. 

With a father in the Army and his mother a preacher, Boone called himself an Army brat and said Kentucky is his home state. He holds a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Louisville, a master's degree in education administration and leadership from the University of the Pacific, and a doctoral degree in higher education from Louisiana State University.

During his undergraduate years, Boone was active on campus and said a resident director mentor convinced him he could pursue a career in student affairs. He saw an opportunity at Grand Valley to help create and sustain the existing culture while adding his own flair. 

Boone said his work is always about the students and he enjoys being part of their growth. 

“I have this belief everyone is an expert at something,” he said. “I want that experience to shine.“

Although Boone said he almost always wears a suit, there’s a lot more behind it. He and his partner have an 8-month-old son, he enjoys running and said he loves higher education.

“I’m big on partnership and collaboration and I’m here to support academic mission of the college,” Boone said. “This is my career and I believe in it.”