Updates

Over the past month, the Presidential Search Committee has completed its review of candidates and, in partnership with our search firm, identified those best suited to lead Valparaiso University. Candidate interviews have concluded, and second-round, in-person interviews are scheduled for the last week of September. Finalist interviews will follow in mid-October, with the selection of our next president anticipated by the end of the month.

This month’s prayer, offered by Pastor Andrew Fields ’93, Valpo alum and pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, lifts up our campus, our friends, and the broader Valparaiso community.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Over the past month, our search consultants have continued reviewing the pool of applicants and nominees for Valparaiso University’s next president. The applicant portal is now open for committee review and will remain active through the September 1 priority application deadline.

As the committee enters the next phase, selected candidates will be invited to participate in virtual interviews, followed by additional conversations in early September.

This month’s prayer, led by Board Chair-elect and Search Committee Chair, lifts up both the candidates and the committee, asking for wisdom and clarity in this season of discernment.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

The Presidential Search Committee continues to receive nominations and applications for Valparaiso University’s next president. Our search consultants are actively identifying and encouraging strong candidates, with recruitment efforts ongoing through the summer.

In late August, the search committee will begin a formal review and interview process. We invite the Valpo community to continue submitting candidate recommendations. Contact information is available on the Presidential Search webpage.

This month’s prayer video, led by Head Men’s Basketball Coach Roger Powell, invites us to lift in prayer those guiding this important work. May they be granted wisdom as they discern our next leader.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Presidential Search Update
The search for Valparaiso University’s next president has entered a new phase. The presidential position description is now complete, and we are officially accepting applications. Candidate recruitment will continue throughout the summer, with the search committee beginning its formal review in early fall.

We invite members of the Valpo community to recommend strong candidates to our search consultants. Contact details are available on the Presidential Search webpage.

In support of this process, the Office of Calling and Spiritual Life has launched a monthly prayer video series to encourage reflection and unity. The first video, focused on seeking God’s guidance, is now available here.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers as we discern the University’s next leader.

Community Engagement Fuels Presidential Search Progress 
On behalf of the Presidential Search Committee, sincere thanks are extended for the exceptional participation in the early stages of Valparaiso University’s presidential search. The recent campus-wide survey garnered an unprecedented 614 detailed submissions, the highest level of engagement ever observed by the search consultant, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to the university’s future. Alongside the survey, numerous meetings and Zoom sessions further deepened the committee’s understanding of the leadership qualities sought in the next president. These collective insights are instrumental in shaping the forthcoming Presidential Search Prospectus. With nominations already arriving and the leadership profile set to be finalized soon, the search is gaining momentum as it prepares to officially launch in early June. The committee expresses gratitude for the community’s continued support and dedication to this vital endeavor.  

Search Firm Selected
The Presidential Search Committee has selected Academic Search as the consulting firm to assist with the national search. The firm was chosen after a thorough review process and brings extensive experience in higher education leadership searches.

Senior Consultants to Visit Campus
On April 29–30, consultants from Academic Search will visit campus to host open forums with students, faculty, and staff. These sessions will gather input to inform the Presidential Profile, a foundational document guiding the selection process.

Student Open Forum: Tuesday, April 29 from 7 to 8 pm. in the Neils Science Center, Room 234

Staff Open Forum: Wednesday, April 30 from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. in the Christopher Center Room 205

Faculty Open Forum: Wednesday, April 30 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the Christopher Center, Room 205

Announcement of Hybrid Search Model
We are conducting a hybrid presidential search, a model selected to attract the most qualified and diverse pool of candidates. By ensuring confidentiality, we can engage exceptional leaders who may be hesitant to enter a fully open process. As the search progresses, the committee will expand to include broader campus representation, ensuring meaningful interaction with key stakeholders. This approach balances transparency and discretion, while honoring the diverse expectations of our community.

Launch of the Presidential Search Committee
The Presidential Search Committee was formally launched. Chaired by Jon A. Steinbrecher ’83, the committee includes a diverse group of faculty, staff, alumni, and board members committed to leading an inclusive and values-based search process for Valpo’s next president.

Board Chair Robert Hansen announced President José Padilla’s, J.D., plan to retire when his contract ends on December 31, 2025, and the Board began preparations for a national search for his successor. Chair Hansen also announced his upcoming retirement and the appointment of Jon Steinbrecher ’83, Ed.D. as chair-elect to help lead the transition process and lead the presidential search committee.