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We Build Lives for Good

The Reverend Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D., became the 20th President of Valparaiso University on January 1, 2026. An ordained Lutheran minister, global scholar, and accomplished higher education leader, he is dedicated to excellence and committed to preparing students for leadership and service in both church and society.

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Presidential Inauguration of Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D.,
Valparaiso University’s 20th President

Valparaiso University will celebrate the Presidential Inauguration of Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D., on Friday, September 25, 2026, in the Chapel of the Resurrection as a part of Homecoming and Family Weekend.

We look forward to welcoming Valparaiso University students, faculty, staff, alumni, supporters, partners, and friends for this historic occasion. Additional details will be shared as plans are finalized.

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Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D.
President, Valparaiso University

Man in a suit and bow tie holding a program, standing among others at an indoor event organized by the President's Office.

The Reverend Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D., became the 20th President of Valparaiso University on January 1, 2026. An ordained Lutheran minister, global scholar, and accomplished higher education leader, he is committed to preparing students for leadership and service in church and society.

Since arriving to the Valpo campus community, Rev. Konkol has made an immediate and energetic impact alongside students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners. By developing a distinctive leadership narrative, strategic mission compass, and momentum building plan, Rev. Konkol has reaffirmed the Lutheran roots and reach of Valparaiso University through the message that “We Build Lives for Good.”

Rev. Konkol has a unique and international background in ministry, education, and leadership. Originally from Amherst Junction, Wisconsin, he began ministry service in South America with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana, where he served four congregations, lectured at the Lutheran Lay Academy, and co-hosted the nationally televised program Word for the World.

Rev. Konkol later served in South Africa with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Global Mission program, while assisting Zulu-speaking parishes and lecturing at the Lutheran Theological Institute. His work also included collaboration with the United Nations, World Council of Churches, and Lutheran World Federation.

Before arriving at Valparaiso University, Rev. Konkol held leadership roles in both congregational and higher education settings, including most recently serving as vice president, dean, and professor at Syracuse University in New Work. While at Syracuse, he helped to explain student participation and alumni fundraising while developing a nationally recognized model for religious life in higher education.

Rev. Konkol holds degrees from Viterbo University, Luther Seminary, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa. He and his wife, Dr. Kristen Konkol, have two children.