The Digester

Trump appoints Erika Kirk to U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors

Mar 10th 2026

Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, was appointed by President Donald Trump to the U.S. Air Force Academy Board of Visitors, a 16-member panel that advises the Defense Department and president on academy affairs.

  • Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, was appointed by President Donald Trump and is listed on the Academy board website as of March 10.
  • The White House confirmed the appointment and said she will continue her late husband's legacy of advocacy for the academy.
  • The Board of Visitors has 16 seats and advises the Secretary of Defense and the president on the academy's morale, curriculum, discipline, facilities and other matters.
  • Charlie Kirk previously served on the board and questioned how the academy handled critical race theory, diversity and inclusion policies while urging faster chapel renovations.
  • Erika Kirk will serve at least three years or until a successor is chosen.
  • Two of the 16 board seats remain vacant, to be filled by President Trump and the House Minority Leader.

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