Kenton Deaton is a senior sports medicine major and the vice president for Women’s Club Soccer at Wright State. She holds a variety of positions at WSU and has been able to reach current growth through her own efforts and the efforts of her mentors. This guiding presence has impacted Deaton enough, that she aspires to help others both in the present and the future.
“One of my longest lifetime goals is just growing. I want to grow as much as possible. [I want] to give myself opportunities and [put] myself in positions to grow,” Deaton said.
Deaton has worked to guide others on campus during her time as both President of the Women’s Club Soccer Team, prior to this year, and the President of the Club Sports Council. She’s also involved throughout WSU as an orientation ambassador for admissions and an intramural sports manager, student manager and facilities manager for WSU Campus Recreation.
“I have some really great mentors that have shown me [that I am capable], and I just want to be that person for someone. I want to help them grow into who they are as a person, and let them realize that they are capable, and can do what they need to do,” said Deaton.
As someone who is heavily involved in growth, Deaton is concerned not only with the growth of individuals, but the growth of her involved organizations as a whole. As a senior, Deaton wants to see the organizations she leads thrive even after she has graduated.
“The transition period is really important, and I feel [that] the class I’m graduating with…is leading them, and once we’re gone this year, it’s gonna be a really different atmosphere to be a part of, but we’re just trying to set them up for success as best as we can,” Deaton said.
As Deaton herself begins to transition into life after college, her focus remains on sports medicine and helping those around her.
“After school, I plan on either going to get master’s or [joining] the workforce. I want to go into higher education [or] campus recreation eventually,” Deaton said.
With so many socially focused positions and goals, Deaton prides herself on the skills that she has learned as a student leader.
“I’ve learned how to meet people where they are, [is] something I’ve grown into. Meeting people where they are helps you realize where they can be. You [just] have to give them the tool set to reach that potential,” Deaton said.
Deaton herself has grown from being involved with a diverse amount of people and organizations and encourages students who are hesitant to step out of their comfort zone to give exploration a chance.
“As long a you’re putting yourself out there, you’re going to be seen. And I feel like that’s what we want as people. We just want to be seen and known. And to achieve that, you have to be willing to let yourself be seen,” Deaton said.
As an experienced student and leader, Deaton’s accolades and skills show what can happen when someone pursues their interests with enthusiasm.
