Rev. Brian Konkol’s Impact as Valparaiso University’s President
In early December, during a community meet-and-greet, Rev. Brian Konkol shared how serving as Valparaiso University’s president was his dream role. Over six months into his position, with a new academic year approaching, Konkol remains enthusiastic. University enrollment and donations are increasing after a period of struggle.
“Being a university president is said to be challenging, but I seem to have missed that memo,” he joked, referring to his settling-in process. Despite historical challenges such as declining enrollment and cutbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, Valpo is recovering. The previous administration faced dissatisfaction, leading to Konkol’s appointment.
Konkol resembles Orville Redenbacher, the famed Valparaiso native, and shares his excitement about positive changes at the university. Fundraising has surged by 80%, and 98% of graduates find employment or further education immediately. The undergraduate completion rate in four years or less stands at 88%.
Partnering with the senior VP for enrollment and marketing, LeAnn Hughes, Konkol reports increased undergraduate enrollment deposits for the first time in a decade. New student numbers are approximately 680, representing a 5% rise. This surpasses the national trend where private universities see little change.
Hughes attributes the improvement to direct outreach by faculty and students, fostering early engagement with prospects. She joined Valpo from Illinois Wesleyan University and felt an alignment with Konkol’s vision, emphasizing Valpo’s unique strengths and its distinctive narrative.
The university aims to expand its international student base amid nationwide declines. Currently, undergraduate international numbers are minimal. To address this, Valpo is actively seeking partnerships abroad, sending staff to India to recruit.
Konkol, formerly at Syracuse University, brings diverse experience, having worked in countries like Guyana and South Africa. He views Valpo as a unifying force amidst societal divides, aspiring for students to achieve professional success while fostering character development.
He has immersed himself in both the community and campus, having lived in multiple dorms to better connect with students and faculty. Moving office locations frequently also helped him engage comprehensively with university staff.
“We are confident and resonating in today’s world,” Konkol stated, noting the growing interest in Valpo graduates.
Faculty Senate president, Bharath Ganesh Babu, notes improved communication between faculty, administration, and the board. Konkol’s openness to feedback has been pivotal in enhancing relationships within the institution.