Rev. Brian Konkol’s First Year as Valparaiso University’s President

In early December, the Rev. Brian Konkol expressed enthusiasm for his role as Valparaiso University’s 20th president, calling it his dream job. More than six months into his presidency, and with the new academic year on the horizon, Konkol maintains this positive outlook as faculty and staff report enrollment and donations are increasing after difficult years.

Konkol joked about not receiving the memo suggesting university presidency is exceptionally challenging. He feels invigorated and enjoys his time leading the institution. Like many universities, Valparaiso faced declining enrollment and budget cuts amid COVID-19 and broader educational challenges. The law school closure and the controversial artwork sale for dorm renovations compounded these issues, as did former president José Padilla’s decision to retire following a Faculty Senate vote of no confidence.

Konkol has embraced Valparaiso University’s challenges and successes. He shares his excitement about positive trends, including an 80% rise in fundraising, a 98% job placement rate for graduates, and an 88% on-time graduation rate for undergrads.

Reflecting the work of the faculty and staff is part of Konkol’s mission. Valparaiso, driven by service, aims to support students and staff alike.

Senior Vice President LeAnn Hughes noted a 5% increase in new student enrollment, the first rise in a decade. This sets Valparaiso apart from many universities, according to data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. While community colleges and public universities saw modest growth, private institutions experienced stagnant enrollment and a decline in master’s program intake.

Hughes attributes improvement to proactive outreach through personal notes and social media by faculty, staff, and current students. Such early connections enhance enrollment and retention. Hughes hailed the distinctiveness of Valparaiso, believing both she and Konkol share aligned visions for the university’s potential and identity.

The university also focuses on international recruitment. Challenges persist, given a reported decline in international graduate enrollment. Valparaiso aims to expand this demographic by sending staff to India under strategic partnerships.

Konkol, previously at Syracuse University, grew up in Wisconsin and has done ministerial work globally. He envisions Valparaiso as a unifying force in divisive times, pursuing both career success and personal growth for students.

He has actively engaged with the campus and community, spending time in student dorms and relocating his office to meet people across the university. This approach promotes connection beyond formal meetings.

Geography professor Bharath Ganesh Babu highlighted improved communication between faculty, board, and administration. Konkol listens and acts on faculty advice, reinforcing university mission alignment. Babu regards Konkol as sincerely motivated by Valparaiso’s Lutheran values, emphasizing their mission to enrich lives positively.