Rev. Brian Konkol (Photo provided by Valparaiso University)
In Valparaiso, the Valparaiso University (VU) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Rev. Brian Konkol as the university’s 20th president, effective January 1, 2026. An ordained minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Rev. Konkol currently serves as Vice President, Dean, and Professor at Syracuse University. He will succeed José Padilla, who in January announced plans to retire at the end of his contract December 31, 2025, after five years of service to VU. Valpo’s national search, launched in March, was led by a committee representing trustees, faculty, staff, alumni, and the broader campus community, with support from the firm Academic Search. “Rev. Konkol embodies the heart of Valpo through deep Lutheran roots, a passion for students, and a steady commitment to excellence,” said Robert D. Hansen, Chairman of the Valparaiso University Board of Directors. “We are excited to welcome him to our community. His energy, faith, and optimism will serve Valpo well as we move forward together.” Here is a link for more about the recent announcement.
