Trump appoints Erika Kirk to Air Force Academy Board of Visitors in late husband Charlie’s stead

The appointment comes after her late husband was selected to serve on the board before his assassination on September 10 at Utah Valley University. The board, which consists of 16 members, is tasked with making recommendations to the defense secretary for changes at the Air Force Academy. It also provides an annual report on the academy’s morale, finances, and academics.

Members of the board currently include Senators Markwayne Mullin, Tommy Tuberville, Kevin Cramer, Ted Budd, and John Hickenlooper, among others

No formal announcement of the appointment was made by the board, though Erika Kirk’s name now appears on the official list of members. White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said in a statement that “Charlie Kirk served proudly on the Board, inspiring not only the next generation of servicemembers, but millions around the world with his bold Christian faith, defense of the truth, and deep love of country.”

“Erika Kirk will continue his legacy, and will be a fearless advocate for the most elite airpower force in the history of the world whose warriors keep our Nation safe, strong, and free,” she added.

The board’s chair, Representative August Pfluger, said in a statement to an NBC affiliate that “Erika is the right person to fill Charlie’s place on the board and continue his work of inspiring the next generation of service members and advancing the academy.”

Charlie Krik was appointed to the board in March 2025. He attended one meeting before his assassination and, while on the board, highlighted construction delays at the Air Force Academy chapel. He also pressed the school to emphasize the things that set America apart from the rest of the world, saying it is “imperative that these cadets know that we are the greatest nation ever.”