Concordia University Texas Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to fostering academic excellence and community growth, Concordia University Texas provides comprehensive library resources and diverse educational programs to support students across humanities, social sciences, and nursing disciplines.

Leadership Roles at Concordia University Texas

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

    Donald Christian, the President at Concordia University Texas, defines the strategic vision and academic direction for the entire institution. Christian oversees the integration of library services with the university's core educational mission in the humanities and social sciences. As the primary representative of the university, the President engages with stakeholders to secure resources for natural sciences and nursing programs. Donald Christian drives initiatives that expand the university's influence within the regional education sector. By fostering a culture of academic rigor, the President ensures that all publications and periodicals remain accessible to the student body. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with the board to advance the university's standing. Christian manages the allocation of capital to support infrastructure improvements and faculty development. Through decisive action, the President maintains the university's commitment to providing a robust learning environment that prepares students for professional success in a competitive global landscape.

    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 while advising on long-term institutional growth. David Zersen contributes expertise to the development of academic programs, particularly within the humanities and social sciences. By offering guidance on institutional values, the President Emeritus ensures continuity in the university's mission. This role involves mentoring faculty and staff to uphold the standards established during previous tenures. Zersen assists in maintaining relationships with alumni and community partners to bolster the university's reputation. The President Emeritus participates in high-level discussions regarding the future of the library and its role as a universal book depository. Through consistent engagement, Zersen helps the university navigate complex transitions while remaining anchored in the core principles that define the institution's identity and academic purpose.

    Jimmy Nkone - Co President

    Jimmy Nkone, the Co President at Concordia University Texas, shares responsibility for the operational and academic success of the university. Nkone focuses on expanding the reach of library services and enhancing the quality of educational resources for students. Jimmy Nkone directs efforts to modernize the university's approach to business and natural sciences curricula. By collaborating with the other President, the Co President ensures that administrative and academic goals remain perfectly aligned. This leadership role involves overseeing the implementation of new technologies to improve access to periodicals and various publications. Nkone manages partnerships that extend the university's impact across the region. Through careful analysis of student needs, the Co President drives improvements in nursing and social sciences programs. Nkone maintains a focus on fiscal responsibility and operational excellence to support the university's long-term viability. The Co President actively contributes to the strategic planning process, ensuring that the institution remains a leader in higher education.

    Cindy Melendez - Chief of Staff

    Cindy Melendez, the Chief of Staff at Concordia University Texas, manages internal administrative workflows and coordinates cross-departmental initiatives. Melendez directs the alignment of university resources with the broader mission of supporting the library and academic departments. By facilitating communication between the executive office and faculty leadership, the Chief of Staff ensures operational efficiency across the Austin campus. Cindy Melendez monitors institutional performance metrics to optimize service delivery for students in nursing and the natural sciences. This role involves streamlining complex organizational processes to maintain high standards of educational support. Through rigorous oversight of daily operations, the Chief of Staff enables the university to meet evolving academic demands. Melendez maintains focus on long-term institutional stability while addressing immediate administrative challenges. The Chief of Staff provides essential support to the leadership team, ensuring that all departments remain synchronized with the overarching goals of the university.

    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 David Zersen (President Emeritus) and Jimmy Nkone (Co President).
    Who is part of Concordia University Texas’s executive team?
    The executive team of Concordia University Texas includes leaders such as Donald Christian (President), David Zersen (President Emeritus), Jimmy Nkone (Co President) 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, President Emeritus, Co President, Chief of Staff.