The Chapel of the Resurrection at Valparaiso University recently hosted the inauguration ceremony for the University’s 20th president, Rev. Brian Konkol, Ph.D. The event drew a standing-room-only crowd, filling the chapel to capacity, with two overflow locations also completely occupied. More than 1,500 individuals attended, including students, faculty, and staff from Valparaiso University, alongside community members, elected officials, faith leaders, and academic representatives who traveled from various parts of the country.
The ceremony honored a new chapter for Valparaiso University and celebrated a promising future for the institution. Speakers during the event emphasized the university's role in positively impacting the world and shaping lives for good. Rev. Konkol, reflecting on this vision, articulated his belief that "the world needs more Valpo graduates," specifically those whose lives are "built for good." He expressed hope that future generations, 500 years from now, would look back upon this era as a "special time," characterized by courage in embracing their collective calling. He concluded his remarks by asserting that "the future is calling" and urged attendees to respond with divine grace.
A diverse group of speakers joined Rev. Konkol on stage, each sharing their perspectives on the University's direction and its potential for collaboration with the broader community. These speakers included alumnus Lem Cartman ’21 ’24 MHA, who serves as the Manager of Community Relations at Henry Ford Health. Also addressing the attendees was Caroline Ban, MSW, who is the program director and associate director of social work within the University’s College of Arts and Sciences. From outside the immediate Valparaiso University community, J. Michael Haynie, Ph.D., Chancellor and President of Syracuse University, participated. Matthew Wells, Ph.D., president and CEO of One Region, also spoke, underscoring a call for collaborative action. He suggested the community consider not merely the president's contributions, but "what we will dare to do with him" in the University's new chapter.
Rev. Konkol officially began his tenure as Valparaiso University’s 20th president on January 1, 2026. The inauguration ceremony took place during his first full academic year, a period that has already seen notable progress for the University. Under his leadership, Valparaiso University has experienced a significant upturn, including the first year-over-year enrollment increase for undergraduate students in a decade. This achievement marks a positive trend for the institution. Further highlighting its current standing, Valparaiso University recently received recognition from U.S. News and World Report. The publication ranked the University as the #6 overall top-rated institution and the #2 institution in best value among colleges and universities in the Midwest region. These recognitions, alongside the enrollment growth, reflect the forward momentum observed during Rev. Konkol’s initial period as president.
