Brian Konkol

About

Reverend Brian E. Konkol, Ph.D., became the 20th President of Valparaiso University on January 1, 2026. An ordained Lutheran minister and experienced higher education leader, he is focused on strengthening the University’s mission to prepare students for leadership and service in church and society.

Since arriving, Rev. Konkol has emphasized collaboration across the campus community. Working with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners, he has helped develop a “Strategic Mission Compass” to guide the University’s priorities and future direction. His leadership centers on the message that Valparaiso University “builds lives for good.”

Rev. Konkol brings an international background in ministry, education, and public engagement. Originally from Amherst Junction, Wisconsin, he began his ordained ministry in Guyana with the Evangelical Lutheran Church, where he served congregations, lectured at the Lutheran Lay Academy, and co-hosted the nationally televised program Word for the World. His work there also included community initiatives focused on interfaith cooperation, youth development, and much more.

Rev. Konkol later served in South Africa with the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission program, while assisting in parish ministry and lecturing at the Lutheran Theological Institute. His work included participation with international faith organizations at United Nations climate discussions.

Before coming to Valpo, Rev. Konkol held leadership roles in both congregational and higher education settings, including serving as Vice President and Dean of Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University. There, he helped expand student engagement, programming, and fundraising while promoting nationally recognized models of interfaith and ethical engagement 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, Kristen Konkol, Ph.D., have two children.