Open Searches

Valparaiso University (Valpo), a distinguished Lutheran institution rooted in academic excellence and values-driven education, invites inquiries, nominations, and applications for the position of President. Located in Northwest Indiana within the dynamic Chicagoland area, Valpo seeks a visionary and dedicated leader to guide the University into the future while honoring its mission and traditions. The new President is expected to begin their tenure as early as January 2, 2026, and no later than July 1, 2026.

The President will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of Valparaiso University, providing strategic leadership and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Reporting to the University Board of Directors of the Lutheran University Association, Inc., this individual will articulate a bold vision, champion institutional priorities, and build meaningful connections with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and external stakeholders.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a leader who embodies the values of Valpo, demonstrates a strong commitment to academic and spiritual growth, and possesses the strategic acumen to enhance the University’s financial position and overall impact. The successful candidate will be an inspiring presence—visible, accountable, and engaged—capable of leading with integrity and optimism.

Founded in 1859, Valpo offers a thorough grounding in the liberal arts as well as professional education and graduate study, helping students find their own paths to lifelong professional, personal, and spiritual growth. Valpo is a community grounded in the Lutheran tradition and believes that all people are created in the image of God and loved for who they are. Valpo is not a bubble. It is a spirited community of many different beliefs, identities, backgrounds, races, and faiths.

Academic Search is assisting Valparaiso University in this search. For more information about the position, institution, leadership agenda, qualifications and application process, please download the full position profile from the Academic Search website: https://www.academicsearch.org/open-searches-public/. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be held in strict confidence. To learn more about this opportunity, potential applicants are welcome to schedule a conversation with one of the Senior Consultants leading this search: Dr. Pam Balch (pam.balch@academicsearch.org) and Mr. Mike Maxey (mike.maxey@academicsearch.org). Please include a copy of your CV to inform the conversation.

Although the search remains open until the position is filled, for full consideration by the Search Committee, candidates should submit all application materials by Monday, September 1, 2025.

Although nominations are not required to be considered for this position, leaders who know of outstanding candidates are welcome to submit confidential nominations by sending the nominee’s full name, position, institution/organization, and email address to ValpoPresident@academicsearch.org.

Valparaiso University maintains a policy of equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment. The University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or (as qualified herein) religion or any protected classification under federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, transfer, promotion, job benefits, pay, dismissal, and social and recreational activities. An institution committed to its Lutheran traditions, the University reserves the right to promote the teachings of the church and to exercise preferences in employment-related practices in favor of Lutherans.