Krista Newkirk

Krista Newkirk is president of the University of Redlands. She led the development of a new student-focused strategic plan and continues to build upon Redlands’ Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation—the US State Department recognizes the university as a Fulbright HSI Leader. Under her leadership, the university launched a two-phase solar energy project set to provide over 30 percent of the university’s energy needs. She continues to lead the transformative University Village project, which will benefit the entire region. In response to the evolving needs of today’s students, she facilitated the development of market-responsive programs, such as a major in geographic information systems (GIS) and a new degree in kinesiology. She championed a varsity esports program and a new esports complex for team competitions, and expanded virtual reality options in the classroom. She continues to advance affordability and accessibility through the Redlands Promise campaign. She serves on several national education boards, including the Public Policy Institute of California’s Higher Education Center Advisory Council, the Executive Committee of the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU), the Board and Tax Policy Committee of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), and the Board of Redlands Bowl. She frequently presents at conferences nationwide on the dynamic evolution of higher education. She has a BA in English and a law degree from William and Mary.