Valparaiso Names Interim President

Colette Irwin-Knott

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The Valparaiso University’s Board of Directors has named an interim President-elect. Valpo alum Colette Irwin-Knott, who has been a board member since 2009, will take over the role after Mark Heckler recommended last year that a search for a new president begin. Irwin-Knott will take over effective September 1, with Heckler working with her during the transition.

Heckler became the university’s 18th president in 2008 and will become President Emeritus once Irwin-Knott assumes responsibilities. Irwin-Knott spent her career in public finance with HJ Umbaugh & Associates in Indianapolis, where she retired from as a partner in 2014.

“Ms. Irwin-Knott’s heart for service and financial acumen will serve Valparaiso University well as it continues to face the global pandemic and focuses on the health and well-being of students, faculty and staff while fulfilling our academic mission,” said Frederick G. Kraegel, Board of Directors Chair. “On behalf of the entire Board of Directors of Valparaiso University, we sincerely appreciate her willingness to lead the University during this important time.”