Valparaiso University Progresses Under New Leadership

In December, Rev. Brian Konkol was introduced as the 20th president of Valparaiso University, expressing excitement for what he termed his “dream job.” Over six months into this role and with an academic year poised to begin, Konkol remains enthusiastic, citing positive trends in university enrollment and donations.

During a recent meeting, Konkol humorously remarked on his experience, noting that the challenges of being a university president had not weighed heavily on him. Sitting in his office, still organizing books on the shelves, he expressed having a great time in his position.

Valparaiso University encountered significant difficulties in maintaining and increasing enrollment in past years, compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, staff reductions, and program terminations. These obstacles followed the closure of the university’s law school and debates over asset sales for dormitory funding. Further, previous President José Padilla faced a Senate vote of no confidence, and later retired. Konkol remains determined to advance the school.

Konkol shares a unique resemblance to Orville Redenbacher, both being Valparaiso natives known for their spectacles and bow ties. Konkol spoke optimistically about developments at the university, citing a notable 80% increase in fundraising, a 98% job placement rate for graduates, and an 88% four-year completion rate for undergraduates. He emphasized his role in showcasing the university, acknowledging staff efforts, and aligning with its service mission.

“The data is there, the facts are there and part of my role is shining a light and holding up a mirror,” Konkol stated.

Accompanying Konkol was LeAnn Hughes, Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing. Both highlighted an increase in undergraduate enrollment deposits after a decade of declines, with nearly 680 new students, marking a 5% rise. Nationally, enrollment growth favors public universities, community colleges at 3.1%, and public four-year institutions at 1.5%, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Private institutions remain steady, while master’s enrollments fall.

Hughes, who began in July 2025, attributes Valpo’s success to the efforts of faculty, staff, and students connecting with potential enrollees through direct and media communication. She believes these personal engagements bolster both recruitment and retention. Hughes came from Illinois Wesleyan University and remarked positively about Valpo’s distinctive appeal and story.

With Konkol’s presidency, Hughes views teamwork and shared ideals with optimism. The university’s narrative and strategic growth are key to Valpo’s advancement, and understanding population data aids their goals.

Furthermore, Valpo seeks to enhance its international student presence, a common challenge. Graduate international enrollment recently fell 4.3%. Currently, the incoming undergraduate international numbers are scant, prompting outreach initiatives in regions like India.

Konkol, previously a vice president and dean at Syracuse University, with ministerial experiences in Guyana and South Africa, regards Valpo as a unifying place. He aims for students to gain rewarding careers and character formation, reinforcing the university’s reputation.

Konkol actively engages with the Valparaiso community and campus, residing in student dorms and transitioning office locations to foster connections. He settled into the president’s residence after varied campus experiences, which helped engage diverse community members.

Faculty Senate President Bharath Ganesh Babu acknowledged improved communication among faculty, administration, and board under Konkol’s tenure. Babu praised Konkol’s dedication and receptive nature, connecting this leadership with the university’s empowerment mission.