Following a national search, the Board of Regents at Concordia University Texas has selected Dr. Kristi Kirk as the University's 10th president and CEO. Dr. Kirk, who has dedicated over 30 years to advancing education in Central Texas, steps into this role on November 1, 2024. As the first female president in the University's century-long history, Dr. Kirk brings a commitment to serving the local community by ensuring that students gain access to education and prepare for meaningful careers in Central Texas.
Throughout her career, Dr. Kirk has been an advocate for expanding educational access, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Her leadership in initiatives like reducing tuition by 40% and securing over $2.7 million in grant funding has made higher education more attainable for Central Texans. But her vision extends beyond graduation: she is passionate about ensuring that students from this region can learn here, grow here, and contribute to Austin’s economy.
“For me, it's not just about providing an education," says Dr. Kirk. "It's about building a community where students are empowered to stay in Central Texas and become leaders, creators, and contributors to the vibrancy of Austin."
Dr. Kirk’s efforts align with Austin’s need for a highly skilled workforce to support its industries from tech to healthcare to business. Under her leadership, Concordia Texas is strengthening its partnerships with local businesses, churches, and community organizations to ensure that students are well-prepared for the professional world and that employers have access to talented homegrown leaders.
Her passion for keeping Austin and Central Texas vibrant is rooted in her deep connection to the community. Having started her career as an admissions manager at Concordia Texas in 1993, Dr. Kirk has remained committed to building bridges between the University and local organizations. She and her husband are also licensed foster parents.
Dr. Kirk is not only a leader at Concordia Texas but also a proud alumna whose educational journey was shaped by the Christ-centered foundation that the University provides.
As Concordia Texas moves forward under Dr. Kirk’s leadership, it will continue to be a place where students of all backgrounds encounter a Christ-centered education and are equipped to make a lasting impact on their community.
For more information, visit Concordia Texas’s Office of the President.