Shining Knights: Zorien Barden describes quiet but impactful drive at MVHS

At Mount Vernon High School, senior Zorien Barden carries himself with a quiet focus, balancing academics and athletics with a steady, purposeful approach.

The thoughtful and introspective student has built his high school experience around discipline, self-reflection and consistent effort, expressing himself through both his actions and his perspective.

“I don’t like to talk a lot. I do my work, I try to get to class on time, get to school on time — stuff like that,” he said, adding that when he is alone, he fills the time with meditation, workouts, drawing, music and gaming.  

Sports, however, are where everything comes together.

A multi-sport athlete who has competed in football, basketball, track and baseball, Zorien sees athletics as both an outlet and an anchor. “Sports is where I feel like myself,” he said. “If I don’t feel like myself, I go there.”

Football, in particular, is his passion. What began at age 4, tackling his older brothers in backyard “free-for-all” games, has grown into a serious goal. He is working to turn what many call a dream into something tangible.

“I don’t want it to be a dream,” he said. “I want it to be reality.”

That mindset shows up in his routine. Zorien trains throughout the week, alternating between strength work and field sessions focused on speed and power. The consistency reflects a larger shift in how he sees himself.

“I’m kind of like a leader. People go off my energy,” he said.

With that awareness comes responsibility. Zorien strives to lead by example, setting a tone through effort and attitude rather than words. “I just try to be the best person I could possibly be,” he said.

That same discipline carries into the classroom. Zorien earned Honor Roll recognition over several years and relies on straightforward strategies: studying, flashcards, digital tools like Quizlet and seeking help when needed. He credits his support system — including teachers, tutors and family — for helping him stay on track.

“It’s very important,” he said of that support. “If you don’t have people behind you, it could be hard to navigate life.”

His father, a self-described math enthusiast, has been a key influence. Zorien shares that interest and is considering studying math in college, along with culinary arts — a field that connects to his focus on health and performance.

“I want to learn how to feed my body the right way,” he said. “If I’m going into professional sports, I want to make sure I’m getting the right nutrients.”

He has applied to several colleges, including Syracuse University and SUNY Oneonta, with an eye toward programs that will allow him to continue playing football while pursuing his academic interests.

Zorien’s high school experience has also been shaped by a moment far more serious than any game.

As a freshman, he suffered a medical emergency after physical education, experiencing heart palpitations before collapsing. A teacher, Christina Crisfield, performed CPR until emergency responders arrived — actions that, according to his cardiologist, saved his life.

“I wouldn’t be here without her,” Zorien said, about the teacher.

The incident is part of a broader set of health challenges he manages, including cardiac issues and high-functioning autism. Rather than defining him, those experiences have deepened his perspective — and his resilience.

“It gives me hope and confidence,” he said.

He draws inspiration from athletes who have faced similar challenges, including former Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, and emphasizes the importance of speaking openly about emotions.

“You can’t keep everything compressed inside,” he said. “Talk to somebody — a therapist, your mom, your brother, a friend. It’s going to help you.”

As graduation approaches, Zorien is thinking not only about his future, but about those following behind him, including his 13-year-old brother. His advice is simple and direct: take high school seriously from the start.

“Ninth grade is very serious,” he said. “Take every year seriously. You’re going to have good days and bad days, but you have to learn how to put your feelings to the side and step up in the classroom.”

Looking back on his own journey from pre-K through senior year, Zorien believes he is prepared — even if there is always more to learn. “As much as I want to be, I’m prepared,” he said.