(ANGOLA) - Trine University has selected longtime administrator and educator Dr. Tony Kline as its 19th president, the university announced Wednesday. Kline will assume the role June 1, 2026.
The decision was approved by Trine's Board of Trustees following a national search to replace Dr. Earl D. Brooks II, who returned to the presidency in 2024. Brooks will step into the role of university chancellor upon Kline's transition.
Board Chair Dr. Rick L. James said Kline's appointment reflects both continuity and confidence in Trine's future leadership.
Kline most recently served as Trine's executive vice president, where he acted as the president's principal aide and oversaw university operations including staffing, budgets, administrative policies and strategic initiatives. He also served as the university's primary liaison to the Board of Trustees on a wide range of institutional matters.
Prior to that role, Kline was vice president for academic affairs. During his tenure, Trine launched new industry-aligned academic programs across all schools, expanded faculty resources, streamlined academic processes and increased enrollment through partnerships. He also supported the integration of artificial intelligence initiatives for faculty.
Before becoming VPAA, Kline served as dean of the Franks School of Education, which more than tripled in enrollment under his leadership despite national declines in teacher education programs. Graduates of the school achieved a 100% employment rate for those seeking teaching positions, a streak that has now continued for 14 years. During that time, Kline also oversaw approximately $1.7 million in grants and gifts to modernize classrooms, launch new programs and support evidence-based teaching methods.
Kline joined Trine in 2013 as an assistant professor. Prior to Trine, he taught at Ball State University and worked as an elementary teacher at The Orchard School in Indianapolis. He holds a Ph.D. in education leadership and research, a master's degree in special education and a bachelor's degree in elementary education, all from Ball State University.
As chancellor, Brooks will continue to support Trine through fundraising efforts and by providing counsel to the Board of Trustees and the university's leadership. Brooks served as president for a total of 25 years and is widely credited with transforming Trine into a nationally recognized institution.
Trine University continues to see strong growth and outcomes. The university welcomed a record incoming class of more than 760 students last fall, and the Class of 2025 achieved a 99.2% placement rate in employment or graduate school within six months of graduation. The university is also expanding its campus with new facilities, including a 200-bed apartment-style residence hall, a student design center, additions to Zollner Football Stadium and a new inflatable athletic dome.
Kline said he is looking forward to leading the university into its next chapter, building on the foundation established under Brooks' leadership.