Krista Newkirk is the President of the University of Redlands, leading strategic initiatives that transform the student experience and expand the University’s footprint across California. A champion for access, she’s enhanced Redlands’ Hispanic-Serving Institution designation, earning recognition as a Fulbright HSI Leader—a distinction shared by only five master’s universities in California. Under her leadership, the University of Redlands has deepened its commitment to sustainability, connectivity, and innovation. With a focus on addressing the evolving needs of today’s students, she facilitated the introduction of market-responsive programs, positioning Redlands as a leader in emerging fields like Geographic Information Systems (GIS).  Newkirk has also championed advancements in digital learning environments, adding a competitive Esports team and expanding virtual and augmented reality options to enrich the student experience. She continues to advance affordability and accessibility through the Redlands Promise campaign. As an innovative higher education leader, Newkirk grown its footprint throughout California, solidifying a successful merger with San Francisco-based Presidio Graduate School, which will become a signature part of the university’s School of Business & Society, and an acquisition of Los Angeles-based Woodbury University. Newkirk 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), where she was recently appointed as Second Vice Chair, and the Board and Tax Policy Committee of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU).