Daily Brief

National Custodial Worker's Recognition Day

National Custodial Worker’s Recognition Day is celebrated Friday, Oct. 2, in appreciation of the employees who keep our schools and workplaces across the nation running smoothly. Kutztown University’s Custodial Services staff supports our students and employees by providing clean and safe living spaces in the residence halls, academic and administrative buildings. Thank you to our Housing and E&G Custodial Services staff for your hard work and dedication to our campus.

Facilities

Water Valve Exercising

On an annual basis, our heat plant staff goes through the campus and exercises the various water valves to ensure they operate properly. We will begin this work tomorrow and it will span the next few weeks. This task is similar to turning a hose spigot on and off. The difference is these valves are underground. In some locations, this task can cause momentary disruptions of water service, depending on the valve and the line being exercised. If disruptions occur, they should not last more than a minute or two. Thank you for your patience as we work through this annual process.

William Meeker, Facilities

October Parents and Family Bulletin

The October 2026 edition of the KU Parents and Family Bulletin has been sent to registered subscribers and may be found on the Parents and Family Bulletin webpage.

University Relations

Student Commencement Speakers

Commencement speaker applications are being accepted from graduate and undergraduate students graduating this fall. The application deadline is Tuesday, Oct. 13. Please direct any students interested in an application or more information to the website.

University Relations

Free Tickets for "Centralia: The Fire Below"

This new play will premiere 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15-16, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, Schaeffer Auditorium. "Centralia: The Fire Below" is the saga of the Pennsylvania town consumed by an underground mine fire. The 90-minute play features several original films, including "The Murder and Trial of Alexander Rea" and "Centralia Hill: Silent No More." A museum of Centralia artifacts will be available in the Schaeffer lobby 30 minutes before and after the performance. The cast includes actors from New York City, Philadelphia and Kutztown University. Tickets are free. Use the following link to reserve your tickets today: Centralia Tickets. For more information, email Centralia@kutztown.edu.

Centralia: The Fire Below

Deryl Johnson, Communication Studies

Golden TEAMmate Recognition Program

The Golden TEAMmate Recognition Program celebrates employees who exemplify our "TEAM KU" values. Recognize an employee whose actions inspire others, strengthen our community and help make Kutztown University an exceptional place to work and learn. Employees who receive recognition in all four TEAM categories will earn the distinction of "Golden TEAMmate" and receive a ceramic KU travel mug.
TEAM categories:
- Teamwork: Working together, supporting one another and collaborating across campus to serve KU students, faculty and staff.
- Empathy: Listening with understanding, valuing diverse perspectives and treating others with compassion and respect.
- Accountability: Taking ownership, acting with integrity and striving for excellence in everything we do.
- Making a Difference: Going above and beyond to create a positive impact on KU students, faculty and staff.
Recognize a Golden TEAMmate today.

Golden TEAMmate Recognition Program

Elisabeth Manwiller, Human Resources

AFSCME Holiday Party: Join us for a night of unity, laughter and celebration

AFSCME members, join us for our holiday party, 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, Kutztown Fire Company Social Hall. Bring your spouse, partner or guest and enjoy an evening of fun while getting to know your co-workers. The cost is $30 per person, AFSCME members will be refunded their $30 admission fee at the door. Your evening will include food, beverages and a night of dancing provided by a DJ. Invitations will be sent via campus mail. We look forward to celebrating with you. 

Christina Ferris, Biology, AFSCME 2234

New Student Orientation - Spring Save the Dates

We are excited to share the New Student Orientation dates for students beginning at KU in the Spring 2027 semester.
- Freshmen Orientation: Wednesday, Jan. 13
- Transfer Orientation: Friday, Dec. 4 (online only) and Thursday, Jan. 14
We look forward to collaborating with our campus partners to welcome in our new Golden Bears.

Orientation

Brett Santos, New Student Orientation

Ogeka Named to AGB Council of Foundation Leaders

Alex Ogeka, executive director of the Kutztown University Foundation, has been named to the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (AGB) Council of Foundation Leaders. The Council is a national advisory group of leaders with expertise in the roles, responsibilities and practices of effective governance for institutionally related foundations. Members bring a deep understanding of the important relationship between foundations and the colleges and universities they serve and meet quarterly to exchange insights and perspectives. Through his service on the Council, Ogeka will have the opportunity to share KUF’s perspective and experiences while engaging with foundation leaders from institutions across the country on issues affecting higher education, philanthropy and foundation governance. Learn more about the AGB Council of Foundation Leaders.

KU Foundation