Erika Kirk appointed to Air Force Academy board

President Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to the Air Force Academy’s Board of Visitors, having her replace her husband.

Comprising 16 members, the Board of Visitors is responsible for making recommendations to the Defense secretary for changes at the Air Force Academy. The board provides an annual report on the military institute’s morale, financial state and academics.

Also on the board is Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) — Trump’s recent pick to be the next secretary of Homeland Security — as well as Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), among others.

The board did not announce Erika Kirk’s appointment, though her name now appears on the list of members.

Asked as to when Erika Kirk had been named to the board, the White House did not say, only praising Trump as having “made the perfect choice” in appointing her.

“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,” White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said in a statement. “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.” 

The 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, co-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.

Updated at 11:22 a.m. EDT.