August 2022

Volume 5, Issue 1

• Academic Affairs

  Rohrbach Library - Fall 2022 Hours (beginning Aug. 29):

  • Monday through Thursday – 7:30 a.m. to midnight.
  • Friday – 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Saturday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday – 2 p.m. to midnight.

  Please visit our website at https://library.kutztown.edu/home for any exceptions/holiday schedules.

  Tutoring Services Recruitment: Fall 2022
  Tutoring Services is currently recruiting peer tutors and academic peer mentors for Fall 2022. If your student is interested in this employment opportunity, please have them complete the Tutoring Services Employment Application. If your student has questions, contact us at tutor@kutztown.edu.

  Center for Student Success and Academic Excellence
  The Center for Student Success and Academic Excellence provides students with individualized success plans, study skills support and connections to campus resources. The Center offers academic skills workshops and one-on-one consultations on study skills, time management, note taking and learning strategies to enhance success inside and outside the classroom. For more information and resources, visit www.kutztown.edu/studentsuccess.

  KU Succeed
  KU Succeed is an academic recovery program designed to help students return to good academic standing by providing a framework for academic success. This framework includes skill-building seminars, mentoring and educational and personal advising. If your student would like to participate, they can register at www.kutztown.edu/studentsuccess.If you have any questions, contact R. Chad Brown, assistant director for Student Success and Academic Excellence at cbrown@kutztown.edu.

  Career Development Center – What Can Our Office Do for Your Student?
  If you have a graduating senior this year, please encourage your student to attend one of our Senior Kick Offs. This virtual event introduces all the resources available this semester for their upcoming job search.

  Four dates are available: Aug. 31, Sept. 6, 7 and 8. Students can find the exact times and Zoom links at www.kutztown.edu/careercenter.

  If you have a younger student who is on the fence about their major, please encourage your student to attend our “Is Your Major Right for You?” workshop, 3 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 7, 116 Stratton. We will discuss tips for making that decision.

• Administration and Finance

  Student Accounts Office Hours
  Fall 2022 hours of operation will be 8 a.m. to noon and 1-4:30 p.m. effective Aug. 22. There is a wall slot if you arrive during our lunch hour.

  Fall 2022 Balances / Statements
  Statements are located MyKU > KU Financial Account tile > Payment Dashboard > Statements. If aid or charges have been changed since the last statement, you can get an interim real time statement 24 hours a day. MyKU > KU Financial Account tile > Payment Dashboard > Activity Details

  Fall Due Dates
  To locate the exact due dates of a student’s specific charges, please visit: MyKU > KU Financial Account tile > Charges Due. To avoid late fees, holds and losing classes for non-payment, remember that changing classes, housing assignments or meal plans can cause a bill to change. Please check the Payment Dashboard to ensure all charges are either paid in full or that pending aid and payments have cleared the bill. Most students’ charges were due Aug. 5.

  Fall 2022 Balance adjustments
  Payment plans may have been overstated when set up using estimates – please look at the most recent statement to see if you need to make any adjustments (up or down).

  Loans can still be reduced if you took the max and do not need it all. Loan change forms are online forms and are easy to complete. If you do not want the awarded Stafford loans, you must refuse the forms by completing the loan change form below.

  • Student Loan Change Forms: https://app.kutztown.edu/forms/?ID=FAStudentLoanChange 
  • Parent Loan Change Forms: https://app.kutztown.edu/forms/?ID=FAParentLoanChange

  Intent to Attend Tile – Required
  This double-sized tile will appear on all students’ wall of tiles. All students, even if paid in full, must change the no to a yes and click ‘save.’ Once this is completed, this tile will no longer show. This is required every fall and spring semester for all students.

  KU Tasks Tile – Check Often
  KU Tasks tile is an important tile. This shows Positive Holds, Negative Holds and items that are needed and missing on the account in ‘To Do’s.’ Click on the colored line and drill down for more details. Holds that says Fall Classes Safe – is a positive hold blocking late fees and the dropping of classes. If you see a note in the ‘Holds,’ that says Pending Funds – this is just an informative note; it is not blocking late fees or class drops. Missing aid questions would go to Financial Aid Services, 610-683-4077. Billing questions would go to Student Accounts, studentaccounts@kutztown.edu or 610-683-4133. It is not too late to apply for additional funding options if needed.

  Bookstore Accounts – Excess Aid
  If you took more aid than needed so you could get a refund and buy books – please know aid won’t disburse and post until the middle of September and refunds start no sooner than Sept. 16. We don’t want anyone to have to wait for their books so we offer a Bookstore Account program for students who have their aid in Pending Status that exceeds their costs.  A few requirements are needed to request this online. Requests start Aug. 15 and end Sept. 9. Purchases are made with the KU Campus Store; for options about how to make purchases, visit their website. One request per semester (fall and spring only).

  Refunds – Overpayment Refunds (BankMobile Disbursements)
  Sometimes a student’s account is overpaid, either by aid or making changes to their bill after payment. These funds are released to students via our refund processing agent BankMobile Disbursements. All students should have a refund selection on file to safely and quickly receive any refunds they are due. The most common is direct deposit into a student’s existing bank account. Fall refunds start no sooner than Sept. 16. Use the personal code mailed to all new students. Returning students who never set up their refund selection in the past, may email studentaccounts@kutztown.edu from their KU email account to request a personal code that will be good for 24 hours. Changing a refund preference is done at www.vibeaccount.com.

  Parent Refunds
  If an overpayment is the direct result of a parent PLUS loan and the parent indicated they wanted any overpayments to go to them, that parent will be mailed a refund check after we start refunds. These refunds take about two weeks to arrive to the loan address. If a parent prefers the refund to be released to the student who has direct deposit as an option, they can change their mind by completing a Parent PLUS Release form online and emailing it to us before Sept. 10.

  Vehicle Registration / Parking Permit for 2022/2023 – Open Now
  All students who wish to park on the Kutztown University campus at any point Monday through Friday between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. must register their vehicle(s) with Transportation Services and, while parked on campus, must properly display an authorized parking permit. $50 per semester or $75 for the year.

  The Vehicle Services site (available through the MyKU portal) is open. Students may register their vehicle for a parking permit for either the fall semester ($50) or the entire academic year ($75). Students need to have a valid registration card (now is the time to update it through your DMV if it is expired), form of payment and vehicle information. Having a digital image of the vehicle registration will cut down on the time necessary to register.

  A second vehicle may be registered free-of-charge, following the same protocol.

  Parking assignments for upperclassmen remain unchanged.

  For more information, visit www.kutztown.edu/parking.

  Please note that Transportation Services is in the Academic Form as part of KU Business Services (this includes the KU Card office). Questions should be directed to parkingpermits@kutztown.edu or 484-646-4249.

  New Students: ID Card Photo Submission
  New/transfer students can now upload their photo into our new system, Transact. Once they have attended orientation, they will receive an email to their KU email account with instructions on properly submitting a photo and a government ID. After successful photo upload, they will receive an approval email with instructions to pick up the card. We ask they allow two business days after successful submission to pick up the card during our business hours.

  The ID cards are new chip-enabled cards that allow for contactless meal purchases. They can just tap their card on the reader that is hooked up to the registers.

  If a student has questions regarding Kutztown University ID card photo uploading or has other questions, please contact KU Business Services (KU Card office) at kucard@kutztown.edu.

  Bear Bucks vs. Flex Dollars
  Bear Bucks are funds a student may add to their ID card for use on and off campus at local stores and eateries in town including grocery stores. Vendors may change at any time, but a current listing can be found at https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrative-offices/ku-card-office/bear-bucks/off-campus-locations.html.

  Flex Dollars are funds a student may add to their ID card for use at on campus eateries only.

  Both of these can be purchased online: MyKU > KU Financial Account tile > Payment Dashboard > Available Items (if using the Payer Access link – scroll to Available Items).

• Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

  Undergraduate Admissions
  Do you know someone who would make a great addition to the Golden Bear family? The Fall 2023 application for admission is now open. Interested students can visit www.kutztown.edu/apply and use the code GOLDEN to waive the $35 application fee. Questions about the application process can be directed to admissions@kutztown.edu or 610-683-4060. It’s Good to be Golden!

  Dean of Students Office
  Be BearAware! BearAware is a brief online, interactive program geared toward incoming students (and parents) to learn about behavioral expectations and standards for students. The revised program adds learning checks throughout the module as well as content on KU's Sexual Misconduct Policy. Incoming students are encouraged to review this resource as part of their orientation to the university. BearAware can be found on the Student Conduct website at https://www.kutztown.edu/studentconduct or directly at https://www3.kutztown.edu/bearaware. Student participants can enter for a chance to win one of four $50 KU Campus Store gift cards for completing the program (winners will be announced in the fall).

  KU Student Assistance
  Professional staff members in Student Assistance are available to all students who need answers to questions, guidance or connections to resources that can help them better navigate their college journey. If your student has questions and isn’t sure where to turn, encourage them to contact Student Assistance at 610-683-1396 or studentassistance@kutztown.edu, to stop by the office in 119 Stratton Administration Center or to schedule an appointment through this link: Schedule a Meeting with Student Assistance. We look forward to supporting all our KU Golden Bears in their college experience.

  Health and Wellness Services
  Due to staffing reasons, OnSite Dental will no longer provide dental services on campus. We recommend scheduling routine visits in advance with your current dental provider at home during breaks. There are also several dental providers within walking distance to campus that accept most insurance plans. As a reminder, for optimal dental health, students are encouraged to their brush teeth and tongue twice daily, floss once daily, limit sugary foods, avoid tobacco products and visit a dentist for routine dental exams every six months.

• Equity, Compliance and Legal Affairs

  Disability Services Office (DSO)
  Parents of freshman and transfer students, please encourage your students to save the date and attend the DSO New Student Orientation 11-11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 30, or Thursday, Sept. 1, on Zoom. Students will have the opportunity to learn about the accommodation implementation process. There will be time for questions at the end of the orientation. Please have your student email DSO@kutztown.edu for a copy of the Zoom link. New and transfer students registered with the DSO will also receive an email closer to the start of the semester with information about the DSO New Student Orientation.

  Parents of juniors and seniors, is your student interested in obtaining a federal job? Check out the Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP). Registration begins August 22 and runs through October 13. All junior and senior students registered with the DSO received an email about WRP in July, so please encourage your student to check their email for more information.

• Housing and Dining

  Live Here, Roar Here: Prepare to Live on Campus
  We can’t wait to welcome your student into their new residence hall home. Move-in day for most first-year students is Saturday, Aug. 27. Times will be assigned based on building and room numbers; stay tuned and keep checking your KU email. Your student’s room assignment (along with their roommate’s information, if already assigned) can be found on their MyKUHousing page.

  Please encourage students to: start talking with their roommate (living expectations/habits, items to share, etc.), become familiar with our policies, and visit our FAQ webpage. You and your student should also follow us on social media. We are posting reels and hosting Instagram Lives all summer to help answer questions and give you pro tips. Instagram: @KutztownHousing; Facebook: Kutztown University Housing and Residence Life. As always, please email us at housing@kutztown.edu with any questions. We are excited to help your student “Live Here, Roar Here.”

• University Relations and Athletics

  Kutztown University Radio
  Is your Golden Bear looking for an award-winning campus organization to join where they will learn broadcasting in a fun and inclusive environment? Kutztown University Radio may fit the bill. No experience is required. The radio station will train and needs volunteers in all aspects including, but not limited to, sports broadcasting, music, DJing, news and promotions. For more information, email kur@kutztown.edu expressing interest or call 610-683-4059.

  KU Presents! 2022-2023 Season Individual Tickets Available Aug. 9
  Experience mandolin virtuoso Sam Bush, London’s The Kingdom Choir, Tony® Award-winner Laura Benanti, Popovich Pet Theatre and so much more. Subscriptions are still available and can be purchased online or by calling 610-683-4092. Subscribers also receive access to discounted tickets to Special Events. KU Students can access $10 tickets by logging for tickets with their MyKU login starting Aug. 9. 

  Golden Bear Football Tickets On Sale
  Get your tickets for the Kutztown Golden Bears! Add your tailgate permits or parking passes for the season and save over individual game tickets. Tickets, tailgate permits and parking passes for individual games are available. KU Students can access one free ticket General Admission per game by logging for tickets with their MyKU login starting Aug. 9. KU Football Parents: Your student can reserve their four player passes up to four hours before game time. Don't let them forget to add you.

• KU Campus Store

  How to purchase course materials?
  Your student’s custom Virtual Shelf for this semester is ready to view, which has been created with the required course materials for their Fall semester. We have included all our affordable options, which includes rental, used and digital materials.

  To view your Virtual Shelf:

  1. Sign into our website www.kubstore.com with your KU email and password.
  2. Review your Virtual Shelf.
  3. Complete your order.

  What are the benefits of Virtual Shelf? With a simple click of the mouse, this tool will allow you to conveniently locate all your required course materials and affordable options. Virtual Shelf will do the work for you as your official course materials assistant. Additional information can be found at www.kubstore.com/about-virtual-shelf.

  Paying for your course materials with Financial Aid?
  If you are receiving financial aid in excess of your tuition, fees, meals, etc., you may qualify for a bookstore account to purchase course-required books and supplies. Submit your request online by clicking here beginning Monday, Aug. 15. Purchases can be made with a bookstore account until Sept. 9.

  Why purchase from KU Campus Store?
  As a non-profit affiliate of KU, our priority is student success and retention. Full refunds are available for materials in original condition throughout the add/drop period. We contribute our surplus to student scholarships, activities and campus athletics. Our goal is for students to have access to the most affordable course materials available to support their academic success.

  Inclusive Access – Course Materials
  Inclusive Access is a collaboration between your professor, KU Campus Store, the Office of Student Accounts and publishers to provide required course materials at a significantly reduced cost. When a professor makes the decision to participate in this program, all students registered for the class automatically receive access to these materials digitally, on the first day of class. For your convenience, you will be billed for your materials on your MyKU account. For more information, visit https://kubstore.com/inclusive-access.

• KU Foundation

  Mentoring Opportunities Available for Students
  Did you know students can be paired with KU alumni for mentoring through the KU Future Emerging Leaders (FUEL) initiative? Through FUEL, current students connect with KU alumni to build professional skills, network in their field of study and see the power of a KU education firsthand. Learn more here.

  1866 Minute Giving Challenge Returns Oct. 18-19
  You are an important part of our upcoming fourth annual 1866 Minute Giving Challenge. For 1,866 minutes, the KU community unites as one to support all – because together, we're golden. Learn more here.

  Save the Date: Homecoming 2022 is Oct. 22
  We are delighted to welcome alumni, current students and their families to Homecoming 2022. Registration opens in August. Learn more here.

• Campus Affiliates

  PSECU Hours for Move-In Day and the Fall Semester
  PSECU will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on move-in day, Saturday, Aug. 27. Visit their office in 280 McFarland Student Union to open an account or ask questions about an existing account. Please note, debit cards will not be issued the same day. Students opening an account on move-in day should plan for alternative means of accessing funds until they receive their materials from PSECU in the mail. During the fall semester, PSECU will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each weekday except Wednesday, when the office will be closed. Due to the office’s heavy educational program schedule in the fall, students in need of assistance are encouraged to call or email for appointments. Staff are available to meet with students outside of posted office hours. Call 610-894-4814 or email the manager, Kelly Ann Ryan, at kryan@psecu.com.

• Dates to Know

  KU Central Calendar
  A full listing of upcoming events and academic deadlines can be found on KU's central calendar.

  Summer Session 10 Week Ends.	Thursday, Aug. 11
  Summer Session II Ends.	Thursday, Aug. 11
  Final Decision for Cancelling Classes - Fall 2022.	Monday, Aug. 15
  First Day to request bookstore account for Fall 2022.	Monday, Aug. 15
  Summer Session II Grades Due from Faculty by 3 p.m.	Tuesday, Aug. 16
  Summer Session II Grades Available in MyKU by 8 p.m.	Tuesday, Aug. 16
  Fall 2022 Registration Opens.	Monday, Aug. 22
  Fall 2022 Semester Begins.	Monday, Aug. 29
  Fall 2022 Add/Drop Period.	Aug. 29 to Sept. 6