President Donald Trump has appointed Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, to the advisory board of the United States Air Force Academy.
Kirk, 37, joins the academy’s 16-member Board of Visitors, a panel that reviews conditions at the Colorado Springs military training facility. According to the academy’s website, the board “inquires into the morale, discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods and other matters” related to the institution.
Her appointment replaces the position previously held by her husband, who was named to the board by Trump in March 2025. Charlie Kirk attended his first meeting in August but was assassinated weeks later during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University in September.
The academy did not formally announce Erika Kirk’s appointment. However, her name has been added to the board’s official list of members as one of Trump’s current five appointees, with one seat remaining vacant.
The Board of Visitors is a congressionally mandated oversight group whose members are appointed by the President and congressional leaders. It monitors academy operations and submits recommendations to the Secretaries of the Air Force and Defense.
Among those previously appointed by Trump to the board in March 2025 are Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Dina Powell. The panel also includes members of Congress from both parties, including Republican senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), who Senate Majority Leader John Thune appointed.
In a statement, White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said that Erika Kirk was a “perfect choice” to succeed her husband.
“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,” Wales said.
“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.”
Since her husband’s death, Kirk has taken on a larger role at Turning Point USA, the group he co-founded. She now serves as its chair and chief executive.
Kirk, a former Miss Arizona pageant winner, was recognized by Trump during the President’s February State of the Union address to Congress.
