It is with heavy hearts that Fulbright University Vietnam announces the passing of Steve Paris, our esteemed and beloved Dean of Student Life.
On behalf of Fulbright University Vietnam, President Scott Fritzen expressed our community’s gratitude: “We feel a profound loss within the university. Steve Paris was always a jovial spirit on campus. Professionally, he has made substantial contributions to the advancement of Fulbright over the course of the last five years, and particularly during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic. His efforts were instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students amidst the myriad difficulties that arose. In all that he did, his influence reached every corner of our campus, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of our institution.”
“In all that he did, his influence reached every corner of our campus, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of our institution.” – Fulbright President Scott Fritzen
Steve was with Fulbright from the beginning. Joining the university in March 2019, he was instrumental in crafting the student experience both inside and outside the classroom. In his own words, Steve was the “Balcony Man.” He saw the bigger picture. He was the symphony conductor who weaved all activities of student services into beautiful harmonies. Steve ran the show. From setting up the school Code of Conduct and Discipline, orchestrating Orientation programs, building our residential programs, to defining a campus culture, structuring student organizations, and overseeing counseling and support services, to name but a few. His unwavering commitment to education, to the well-being of students, and his exceptional leadership has left a profound impact on the Fulbright community, while his mentorship, dedication, wisdom, and kindness will forever remain in our hearts.
Mr. Ben Wilkinson, Executive Director of Fulbright University Vietnam USA and member of the university’s Board of Trustees remarked, “I am profoundly saddened by Steve’s untimely passing. I always looked forward to my occasional meetings with Steve and the projects we worked on together. I was always struck by Steve’s compassion for our students and concern for their wellbeing and success. His recognition that Fulbright’s responsibility for our students extends far beyond the classroom component of their educational experience epitomized the liberal arts ethos. Steve will be sorely missed by the entire Fulbright community.”
Ms. Đinh Vũ Trang Ngân, Fulbright’s Dean of Undergraduate Program, reminisced, “Steve Paris was not just a colleague; he was a friend and a teacher to all of us. His tireless efforts were instrumental in creating Fulbright’s vibrant Student Life, enriching the liberal arts experience for Fulbright’s students. We will sorely miss his presence, boundless energy, wit, and the silent dedication he poured into every corner of our university.”
“His tireless efforts were instrumental in creating Fulbright’s vibrant Student Life, enriching the liberal arts experience for Fulbright’s students. We will sorely miss his presence, boundless energy, wit, and the silent dedication he poured into every corner of our university.” – Dinh Vu Trang Ngan, Dean of Undergraduate Program
“Steve was a remarkable leader,” a close colleague of Steve Paris, Ms. Ruby Nguyen, Student Affairs and Engagement Manager, resonated Ms. Trang Ngân in her remark. “His wisdom and kindness transformed our journey at Fulbright University. His genuine care and guidance will forever resonate in our hearts, inspiring us to carry forward his legacy of passion for education. Rest peacefully, Dean Paris.”
To Ms. Đặng Thanh Nga, our Registrar, Dean Paris was Uncle Steve: “I’ll never forget our daily chit-chats with bác Steve about work and life in our cozy office since the very first day I started at Fulbright. I am not good at expressing myself but bác Steve always knew when it’s time to pull up a chair and “knock-knock” on a neighbor-next-table and ask, “Are you OK?”. I’m grateful for being a part of his team to share his hopes and aspirations about higher education, for being his “neighbor” or being a friend to share the passion about food and cooking, etc. Without Steve’s trust and encouragement, I would not be here today, becoming a professional registrar. He is more than a leader, but a teacher, a mentor, and a wise uncle. Please have a safe ride and a good time up there, bác Steve, as your legacy will go on and you are always in our heart!”
Nga Dang’s paintings of and for Steve.
“He is more than a leader, but a teacher, a mentor, and a wise uncle. Please have a safe ride and a good time up there, bác Steve, as your legend will go on and you are always in our heart!” – Nga Dang, Registrar
Nguyễn Thị Thảo Nguyên, Fulbright’s Student Experience Manager, echoed this sentiment: “My life changed since early 2016, when I started working with Steve Paris as his assistant. No word can express the whole extent of my appreciation towards this opportunity. I cannot be where I am today without him. Steve is not only my Best Boss ever, but he is also my Greatest teacher. For the last 6 years, every Teacher Day, I remember him first and say Thank You to him. I can’t do it this year anymore but I know that he is still here with us in the legacy he has with Fulbright, so we’ll try our best to keep up your work, Steve.”
Ms. Đàm Bích Thủy, Founding President of Fulbright University Vietnam, remembers: “I had the privilege of witnessing Steve’s tireless commitment firsthand. His role in establishing Fulbright’s unique educational experience was profound. Steve’s dedication to Fulbright was not only apparent during his tenure but extended even beyond, as his impact continues to ripple through the lives of our students and the fabric of our university. I recognize the immense contributions Steve made in creating an environment that fosters learning, growth, and empathy. His passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply, yet his legacy will forever remind us of the transformative power of education and the profound influence one dedicated individual can have.”
Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
We will miss you. Rest in peace, our “Balcony Man”!
