History

In 1990, the Office of Commuter Services took the initiative to establish open lines of communication between University students, student organizations, and the local community. The plan led to the creation of the Off-Campus Advisory Council (OCAC). Today, this organization involves active participation from University students, administrators, town residents and local officials.

Mission

The Off Campus Advisory Council acts as the liaison, through the Office of Off-Campus Student Life, between the university students and community residents, to improve communication through cooperative programming and to establish and maintain in a harmonious relationship between the two groups.

Goals

• To discuss relevant attitudes/issues brought to our attention by Kutztown students and community members.
• To seek change or a better solution to relevant attitudes/issues.
• To proactively plan programs that will strengthen relations between the university and community members.
• To provide feedback to the office of Off-Campus Student Life regarding our effectiveness.

To ensure that OCAC meets it goals, monthly meetings are held for OCAC members and interested individuals who wish to discuss relevant issues and plan upcoming events in conjunction with its mission.

OCAC Advisor
Erica Hesselson

OCAC President
Tara Bretsky

OCAC Treasurer
Sarah Bitts

Programs sponsored through OCAC

• Operation Snowflake – student volunteers shovel snow for elderly and disabled residents in Kutztown

• Tenant Consultants – serve as liaisons for the University and the Briar Cliff and Sacuony Commons communities

• Arbor Day – Student organizations donate their time and talent by planting trees at the Kutztown Community Park

• Kutztown Community Partnership – seek opportunities to work together that will enhance and strengthen the quality of living in the community.

281 Student Union Building
Kutztown, PA - 19530
610-683-1524
ocac@kutztown.edu