President’s Office

Office of the President

President José D. Padilla leads Valparaiso University with a forward-looking vision grounded in innovation, experience, and service. Appointed by the Board of Directors, Padilla brings over 30 years of leadership in higher education, having held roles at the University of Colorado System and DePaul University. His commitment to academic excellence, strategic planning, and inclusive leadership guides Valpo through evolving challenges and new opportunities.

First Things First

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About the President

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Past Presidents

José D. Padilla Named Valpo President

José D. Padilla, a seasoned higher education leader, brings decades of experience to Valpo as its new president. His prior roles include senior leadership positions at the University of Colorado System and DePaul University, making him well-equipped to guide Valpo into the future.

All Hands on Deck

Upon his appointment as president in early 2021, President Jose Padilla recognized the urgent need for a refreshed vision and a new strategic plan – one that will inform the work of Valparaiso University’s faculty and staff for the next five years.

Led by Kevin Goebbert, an alumnus and tenured faculty member, along with a consulting partner, the strategic plan will work with the campus community to develop bold and actionable objectives that will expand the University’s ability to fulfill its mission to prepare students to lead and serve. The full strategic planning committee consists of faculty and staff representing many different campus areas. The committee has been charged to engage and work with all of University constituencies – including, students, alumni, and community partners – to develop and prioritize initiatives that will lead to a thriving University for our students, alumni, regional, and broader community.

For more information, please visit the strategic planning website where you can find more information about the process, upcoming events and how you can contribute. Be a part of the renaissance of Valparaiso University!

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Leadership & governance