Board of Directors chair Frederick Kraegel cited Heckler’s leadership in recent "enrollment growth, new program development, campus expansion, and the implementation of the most comprehensive and ambitious strategic plan in Valpo’s history.
"[8] Heckler joined the presidents of more than 20 private colleges and universities in Indiana to call on legislators to create a law addressing hate crimes in 2018.
He first had been Director of the School of the Arts and a professor of theater at that University, then founding dean of its College of Arts and Media and professor of theater, film, and television, then acting chancellor, and finally, provost and vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, appointed to that role in 2003.
Prior to CU Denver, he had been at Siena College in Loudonville, New York as professor of fine arts and director of theater.
While at Siena, Heckler directed, acted in, designed, and/or produced more than 100 academic and professional productions in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.