In December, Rev. Brian Konkol expressed his enthusiasm for his new role as the 20th president of Valparaiso University, describing it as his dream job. Now over six months into his tenure, Konkol remains enthusiastic as the university experiences growth in enrollment and donations. Konkol reflected on his experience, humorously stating that despite the reputed difficulty of being a university president, he has been thoroughly enjoying his role.

Valparaiso University has faced several challenges in recent years, including decreased enrollment and changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. These issues were compounded by faculty and staff reductions, program cuts, the closure of the law school, and controversy over selling artwork for dormitory renovations. The previous university president, José Padilla, faced a vote of no confidence and announced his retirement in 2024.

Konkol, who bears a resemblance to local icon Orville Redenbacher, highlights positive developments such as an 80% increase in fundraising. Furthermore, over 98% of graduates either secure employment or continue their education, and 88% of undergraduates complete their degrees within four years. He emphasized his role in promoting the university’s achievements and mission.

Undergraduate enrollment deposits are increasing for the first time in a decade, with over 680 new students poised to join. LeAnn Hughes, the university’s senior VP for enrollment and marketing, attributes this growth to outreach efforts by faculty, staff, and students. Hughes joined Valpo in July 2025, bringing a wealth of experience from Illinois Wesleyan University. She notes the importance of early, personal connections in both attracting and retaining students.

Hughes and Konkol align in their vision for Valpo, aiming to highlight the university’s uniqueness in the higher education landscape. They plan to expand the international student population, which poses a challenge nationwide. Initiatives include sending staff to India to establish partnerships for this purpose.

Konkol, previously a vice president and dean at Syracuse University, has international ministerial experience in Guyana and South Africa. He sees Valpo as a unifying force in a divisive society, aiming to produce graduates who excel in their careers and personal lives. He appreciates the growing interest in Valpo’s community.

During his initial months, Konkol engaged deeply with the university environment. He resided in different student dorms, allowing personal interactions with students. He also rotated his office location throughout campus to connect with faculty and staff. These efforts provided insights that might not have occurred otherwise.

Bharath Ganesh Babu, president of the Faculty Senate, praised the increased communication between the administration, board, and faculty. He emphasized Konkol’s willingness to listen and take advice, strengthening the university’s mission as a Lutheran institution. Babu, who participated in interviewing Konkol, noted his sincerity and dedication to the university’s ideals of shaping impactful lives.