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Image: CAFÉ CON UN PROFESOR
CAFÉ CON UN PROFESOR
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Authentic Pastry-Making Experience At Home Takes Valpo French Students Abroad
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A Beacon’s Reflection | Savannah Gostlin ’25
Red brick building with "College of Business" sign and green trees in the foreground, highlighting its renowned business accreditation.
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Valparaiso University Launches Religious Studies Major
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Valpo Social Work Students LEAD The Way Toward A Brighter Tomorrow
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Valparaiso University Engineers Put Their Skills to the Test with Race Car Design and Construction
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Valparaiso University Student Combines Economics and Fire Safety in Effectiveness and Response Study
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Simeon Ehm’s ’24 Path from Environmental Passion to Purposeful Impact

About the President

A dynamic thinker, and natural leader, President Padilla brings many skills, experiences, and accomplishments in higher education that are ideally suited to the University’s needs today and in the future.

Meet President José D. Padilla, J.D.

President Padilla is a strong believer in service and regularly puts his faith into action.  He combines service and faith with wisdom to ensure that Valpo graduates are learned and spiritual men and women who become force multipliers in their professions and communities.

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On Dec. 2, 2020, José D. Padilla, J.D., was announced as Valparaiso University’s 19th president.

President Padilla joined Valpo as the culmination of a long and successful career in higher education. He served as vice president, university counsel, and secretary of the University of Colorado System. Previously he served 15 years in senior leadership roles at DePaul University in Chicago, the most recent as vice president, general counsel, and secretary.

President Padilla began his career in law before pursuing public service in Washington, D.C., including roles with Senator Lloyd Bentsen and President Bill Clinton’s administration. He holds a bachelor’s in education from the University of Toledo and a J.D. from the University of Michigan. Currently, he chairs the Missouri Valley Conference board and serves on several national higher education organizations. A recognized leader, he’s been honored by Crain’s Chicago Business, Negocios Now, and Hispanic Business magazine. Born in Germany and raised in Ohio, he and his wife Hilda have two children. He enjoys fitness, reading, fly fishing, and time with his dog, Coach.

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