President Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, to replace her husband’s seat on the Air Force Academy Board of Visitors.
Erika Kirk, 37, is among the six appointees directly selected by the president to sit on the 16-person advisory board. The Board of Visitors is tasked with considering the curriculum and instruction of the academy, recommending disciplinary action and preparing a semiannual report.
Her appointment, which appears to have occurred over the weekend, means she will replace her late husband, whom Trump initially tapped to serve on the board in March 2025. Neither Kirk has formal military training or experience.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said Erika Kirk was the “perfect choice” for the board.
“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. Erika Kirk will continue his legacy, and 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,” Wales said in a statement.
The Independent has asked Erika Kirk for comment.
Erika Kirk will serve on the board while also overseeing Turning Point USA – just as her husband had.
Charlie Kirk only attended one meeting while serving on the Board of Visitors before he was assassinated in September.
While serving on the board, he recommended speedier renovations for the academy chapel, according to meeting minutes reviewed by Stars and Stripes.
The Air Force Academy Board of Visitors is tasked with preparing a semiannual report for the Secretary of Defense on its views and recommendations for the academy through the Secretary of the Air Force and Armed Services Committees in the House and Senate.
The board is comprised of 16 members, six of whom are appointed by the president, two designated by the speaker of the House, one designated by the House minority leader, two designated by the Senate majority leader, and four appointed by each chairperson and ranking member of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees.
While not an official member of the Trump administration, Erika Kirk has become closely connected to the administration since her husband was killed – absorbing some of Charlie Kirk’s legacy and role as a promoter of conservative Christian ideology.
Most recently, she was a guest of the president’s at the State of the Union address.
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