Tony Kline, Ph.D., biography
Tony Kline, Ph.D., began serving as the 19th president of Trine University in June
2026.
Before he became president, he served as executive vice president for the university. In that role, he served as principal aide to Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine’s 16th and 18th president. As executive vice president, Dr. Kline oversaw a wide range of matters of institutional importance, including management of staff, budgets, administrative policies and procedures, university AI advancement and strategic initiatives on campus and in the region.
Prior to being named executive vice president, he served as vice president for academic affairs (VPAA).
Under his leadership as VPAA, the university launched industry-aligned programs across all academic schools, streamlined and enhanced academic processes and faculty resources, increased support for department chairs and guided artificial intelligence initiatives for faculty. Enrollment increased in academic schools thanks to collaborative partnerships.
Prior to becoming VPAA, he served as dean of the university’s Franks School of Education.
Under Dr. Kline’s leadership, the Franks School of Education more than tripled in size, from 82 students in fall 2016 to 296 in fall 2023. This came despite national trends showing fewer students enrolling in teacher education programs.
The school enjoyed 100% employment for its graduates seeking teaching positions, a trend that has now continued for 14 years.
Dr. Kline oversaw earned grants and gifts of about $1.7 million that supported faculty in the transformation of classrooms in Shambaugh Hall to incorporate the latest technology, initiate new programs and training, and apply evidence-based teaching methods.
He joined Trine University as an assistant professor in 2013. Prior to working at Trine, he was a faculty instructor and later assistant professor in the Department of Elementary Education at Ball State University, and an elementary teacher at The Orchard School in Indianapolis.
Dr. Kline has been recognized for excellence in teaching and leadership at the university, regional and national levels.
He holds a Ph.D. in education leadership and research, a Master of Arts in special education and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education, all from Ball State University.