Concordia University Texas Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Concordia University Texas has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, academic leadership, and institutional legacy.

Rooted in a commitment to academic excellence, Concordia University Texas fosters a transformative educational environment that integrates humanities, sciences, and nursing to prepare students for meaningful professional contributions within a global society.

Leadership Roles at Concordia University Texas

  • President - Donald Christian
  • Co President - Jimmy Nkone
  • President Emeritus - David Zersen
  • Chief of Staff - Cindy Melendez
  • Donald Christian - President

    Donald Christian, the President at Concordia University Texas, architects the overarching vision and long-term strategic direction for the entire institution. Christian oversees the expansion of academic offerings, including the development of nursing and social sciences curricula, while maintaining the integrity of the university library as a central cultural resource. As the primary representative of the university, the President engages with stakeholders to secure resources and promote the institution's impact on the broader educational sector. Donald Christian drives initiatives that enhance student outcomes and faculty research capabilities across all disciplines. This leadership role requires constant evaluation of market trends in higher education to ensure the university remains relevant and competitive. By fostering a culture of innovation and academic rigor, the President ensures that the institution meets the evolving needs of the student body. Christian provides the necessary guidance to navigate complex administrative challenges while upholding the core values of the university.

    Jimmy Nkone - Co President

    Jimmy Nkone, the Co President at Concordia University Texas, manages the execution of business operations and the expansion of the university's educational footprint. Nkone focuses on the financial sustainability of the institution, ensuring that the library and various academic departments receive the funding required for growth. As a key leader, the Co President collaborates with the executive team to implement policies that improve the quality of periodicals, books, and digital publications available to the community. Jimmy Nkone drives efforts to modernize the university's infrastructure, supporting the natural sciences and humanities programs through improved resource allocation. This leadership role involves identifying new opportunities for institutional partnerships and enhancing the university's presence in the regional education market. By streamlining administrative processes, the Co President increases the overall efficiency of the university. Nkone maintains a sharp focus on fiscal responsibility and operational excellence, ensuring that the institution continues to provide high-quality educational experiences for all students.

    David Zersen - President Emeritus

    David Zersen, the President Emeritus at Concordia University Texas, provides historical context and strategic counsel to the current leadership team. Zersen supports the preservation of the university's cultural and educational legacy, ensuring that the institution remains true to its foundational mission while adapting to modern academic demands. As a senior advisor, the President Emeritus offers insights into long-term institutional development and the evolution of the library as a vital resource for the humanities and social sciences. David Zersen facilitates connections between the university and its alumni network, fostering a sense of continuity and shared purpose. This leadership role involves mentoring emerging administrators and providing guidance on complex institutional challenges. By leveraging decades of experience, the President Emeritus helps the university navigate shifts in the educational landscape. Zersen contributes to the stability and growth of the institution, ensuring that the core values of the university remain central to all future strategic planning and academic initiatives.

    Cindy Melendez - Chief of Staff

    Cindy Melendez, the Chief of Staff at Concordia University Texas, directs internal operations and coordinates strategic initiatives across all academic departments. Melendez manages the flow of information between the executive office and the broader university community, ensuring alignment with the mission of the library and the institution. By optimizing administrative workflows, the Chief of Staff supports the integration of nursing, natural sciences, and humanities programs. Cindy Melendez facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to enhance the efficiency of the university book depository and cultural resources. This leadership role involves monitoring institutional performance metrics and driving improvements in operational capacity. Through rigorous oversight of university-wide projects, the Chief of Staff maintains the high standards expected of a premier educational institution. Melendez secures the operational foundation necessary for faculty and students to thrive in a competitive academic landscape, ultimately strengthening the university's position as a hub for research and learning.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Colleges & Universities

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Concordia University Texas Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Concordia University Texas?
    Concordia University Texas is led by Donald Christian (President), along with executives such as Jimmy Nkone (Co President) and David Zersen (President Emeritus).
    Who is part of Concordia University Texas’s executive team?
    The executive team of Concordia University Texas includes leaders such as Donald Christian (President), Jimmy Nkone (Co President), David Zersen (President Emeritus) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Concordia University Texas have?
    Concordia University Texas has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Concordia University Texas’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Concordia University Texas includes roles such as President, Co President, President Emeritus, Chief of Staff.