A Syracuse University Leader Steps Up to Helm Valparaiso University: What Does This Mean for Both Institutions?
In a move that’s sure to spark conversations across academia, Rev. Brian E. Konkol, Vice President and Dean of Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University (SU), is set to take on a new role as the 20th president of Valparaiso University in Indiana. But here’s where it gets intriguing: Konkol’s transition isn’t just a career shift—it’s a testament to his transformative leadership and a bold step for both universities. His appointment begins on January 1, 2026, marking the end of an impactful eight-year tenure at SU and the start of a new chapter for Valpo.
Why This Matters: Konkol’s time at Syracuse has been nothing short of remarkable. Since joining in 2017, he’s been a cornerstone of Chancellor Kent Syverud’s executive team, shaping university policies and fostering interfaith dialogue. But this is the part most people miss: under his strategic vision, Hendricks Chapel saw a staggering 933% increase in enrollment and now sponsors over 2,000 programs annually. That’s not just growth—it’s a revolution in campus engagement.
A Leader with Global Roots: Before SU, Konkol’s journey spanned continents. From serving as a chaplain at Gustavus Adolphus College to co-pastoring in Wisconsin and leading the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s missions in Guyana and South Africa, his experience is as diverse as it is inspiring. At SU, he also taught classes on religion, conflict, and collaboration at the Maxwell School, proving his ability to bridge theory and practice. Boldly, his work with Le Moyne College to co-found the Fellowship for Emerging Leaders in Ministry highlights his commitment to nurturing future leaders.
Valpo’s Visionary Choice: Robert D. Hansen, Chairman of Valparaiso University’s Board of Directors, praised Konkol’s “deep Lutheran roots, passion for students, and steady commitment to excellence.” But here’s the controversial question: Can a leader so deeply rooted in one institution’s culture truly adapt to another? Or is this precisely what Valpo needs—a fresh perspective with proven results? Konkol’s track record suggests the latter, but only time will tell.
What’s Next for Syracuse? Chancellor Syverud called Konkol an “exceptional leader” whose dedication to student success and academic excellence will be missed. Yet, this transition also opens doors for new leadership at SU. Will the next dean of Hendricks Chapel continue Konkol’s legacy, or chart a new course? And for Valpo, how will Konkol’s global and academic experience reshape the university’s future?
Food for Thought: As Konkol steps into this new role, it’s worth asking: What makes a leader truly transformative? Is it their ability to grow programs, their global perspective, or their unwavering commitment to students? Share your thoughts in the comments—do you think Konkol’s move is a win for Valpo, a loss for Syracuse, or both? Let’s spark a conversation!
