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In a recent move, President Donald Trump has named Erika Kirk, the widow of well-known conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to the Air Force Academy’s Board of Visitors. This appointment fills the vacancy left by her late husband, furthering her involvement in the realm of military education and governance.
The Air Force Academy’s Board of Visitors, a panel composed of 16 members, plays a crucial role in advising the Defense Secretary on potential improvements at the academy. Their responsibilities include evaluating and reporting on the institution’s morale, financial health, and academic performance each year.
Among the board members are several notable figures, including Senator Markwayne Mullin from Oklahoma, who has recently been selected by Trump as the prospective Secretary of Homeland Security. Joining him are Senators Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, Ted Budd of North Carolina, and John Hickenlooper of Colorado, reflecting a diverse political representation.
While Erika Kirk’s addition to the board has not been formally announced, her name has appeared in the list of current members. This development marks her official entry into the advisory body, yet the specific timing of her appointment remains undisclosed as neither the White House nor the Air Force Academy has provided a statement.
The White House and Air Force Academy didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment as to when she was appointed.
“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,” Rep. August Pfluger (R-Texas), the board’s chair, told NBC affiliate KOAA.
“I look forward to working alongside her to carry on Charlie’s legacy,” said Pfluger, who noted that he recommended Erika Kirk’s appointment months ago.
Trump early in his second term appointed a slew of allies to the boards of visitors at the nation’s military academies, including conservative media personalities.
Charlie Kirk, founder of conservative group Turning Point USA, was appointed by Trump to the Board of Visitors in March 2025 and attended one meeting in August before his Sept. 10 assassination on the campus of Utah Valley University.
While on the board, Charlie Kirk pointed out construction delays at the Air Force Academy chapel and pressed the school to emphasize what sets America apart, as it is “imperative that these cadets know that we are the greatest nation ever.”
The 31-year-old was revered by the Trump administration and promoted conservative values on college campuses across the country through Turning Point USA.
Erika Kirk has taken over as CEO of Turning Point USA since his death.