https://giveto.valpo.edu/go?cmd=message&id=758737c7-6e1d-4dfe-9f8e-1a35b087ec53
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Dear Valparaiso Alumni and Friends,
Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D., has been selected as the 20th President of Valparaiso University, effective January 1, 2026. He brings exceptional leadership experience, deep Lutheran roots, and a compelling vision for Valpo’s future. This marks an important moment in our University’s history, and I hope you share our optimism for what lies ahead. As alumni and supporters, you know what makes Valpo extraordinary: academic excellence, a mission grounded in the Lutheran tradition, and a steadfast commitment to preparing students for lives of leadership and service. Rev. Konkol not only understands these defining strengths—he has lived them. Formed by a small but influential Lutheran congregation in rural Wisconsin and shaped through eight years of international ministry in Guyana and South Africa, he brings a global perspective anchored firmly in the values of faith, vocation, and service to the common good. Rev. Konkol joins Valpo after serving as Vice President, Dean, and Professor at Syracuse University, where he led a transformational five-year strategic plan at Hendricks Chapel and oversaw a 933% increase in student engagement, establishing one of the nation’s most dynamic models for spiritual, ethical, and community-centered growth in higher education. He also played a key leadership role in Syracuse’s successful $1.5 billion campaign, demonstrating his ability to inspire philanthropic support and cultivate strong alumni partnerships. He brings to Valpo: |
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Rev. Konkol has described the opportunity to lead Valpo as a “dream come true”—a calling shaped by years of admiration for the University’s mission and its impact on the world. We believe he will be an inspiring leader for our students and a meaningful partner to the alumni community.
He holds a Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary and both a Master of Theology and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. Widely respected as an ordained Lutheran minister, global scholar, and higher education leader, he has been recognized for his impactful teaching, international service, and contributions to religious and interfaith life. During the search process, Rev. Dr. Konkol expressed a heartfelt desire to connect with Valpo alumni and strengthen the foundation of support that has sustained the University across generations. “Valpo’s alumni and friends are essential partners in our mission. I look forward to listening, learning, and building relationships that honor our shared values and expand the transformative impact of a Valpo education.” In the months ahead, we will host opportunities for alumni and friends to meet Rev. Konkol. More information will be shared soon. Thank you for your continued dedication to Valparaiso University. With Rev. Konkol’s leadership, we are poised for an exciting era of growth, renewal, and mission-driven impact. Together, we will write the next chapter of Valpo’s story. Warmly, |
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Robert D. Hansen '82
Chair, Board of Directors |
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A bit of info that might interest folks in this forum: Rev. Konkol is co-principal investigator for a campus-wide initiative, “Character Development through Sport Fan Engagement,” at Syracuse University that uses sport fandom as a vehicle for character/leadership development; the project was awarded an $800,000+ institutional impact grant in 2025.
He has just about everything we need. Fundraising experience, check. Faith-based background, check. Substantial higher education experience, check. Now let’s turn this ship around!
We finally have a name! Based on the initial press release, he seems to fit what Valpo is all about.
If anyone is looking for more information on President Konkol, Syracuse has a full bio on him. Fun Fact: he played basketball at Viterbo University (located in La Crosse, WI)!
https://chancellor.syr.edu/university-leadership-2/chancellors-executive-team/brian-konkol/
Very exciting choice! You can see from the choice that the Board clearly understood the fact the Padilla was not the right one.
If my math is right, he is the youngest President (45) since OP who was 39 when selected.
I am pleased Rev. Konkol is a fan of sports, and I vow not to hold it against him that he is a devoted lifelong Green Bay Packers fan. Here is the introductory video:
Wow! Just Wow! A dynamic speaker.
I’ve got a good feeling about this guy, at least based “on paper.”
It’s clear that he understands VU’s mission and purpose. With his background, I’m assuming he’s no babe in the woods. He knows that he’s coming into a challenging situation.
I understand if some question his lack of close association with professional schools. But I am not concerned about that. During his eight years at Syracuse, he’s had a seat at the table with leaders from all of the colleges, and he has worked closely with a very strong president in Kent Syverud.
I’m very optimistic about this appointment, and I hope that others are, too.
Also….he’s starting in January!
This all looks promising!
Yes, this seems like a nearly perfect fit. I think it explains why the search committee felt good about their timeline and why he is primed already for a January 1 start. And...as a Syracuse resident, he was probably the only candidate who thought of Valparaiso weather as an upgrade and he wanted to get here fast for the winter!
And yes, his basketball experience on the court and Packer fan stuff is encouraging. He has personally experienced the joy, excitement and hard work you find in sports. I recall that Stage boy Heckler looked like he had never put on a baseball cap when one was handed to him at a VU game in 2009.
Let's look forward and support our new President. He will need some time and some understanding that he is inheriting problems. His interest in sports is a plus.
Looking forward to seeing what the new President is able to accomplish!
It does seem a bit weird that his only experience is running a chapel. But, sounds like he did a phenomenal job at that, so hoping his skills will be able to translate!
O.P. Kretzmann and Alan Harre were also Lutheran pastors. I seem to recall they were pretty good VU presidents.
Paul
