May 2026

Volume 8, Issue 10

• Campus Announcements

  Spring 2026 Commencement Set for May 15-16
  More than 1,300 students will be awarded degrees during Kutztown University’s spring commencement ceremonies May 15-16, at O'Pake Fieldhouse. Dr. Philip Cavalier, university president, and Dr. Lorin Basden Arnold, provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, will preside. Graduate students will receive their degrees at 5 p.m. Friday, May 15, including 16 doctoral candidates. Undergraduate students in the Colleges of Education and Liberal Arts and Sciences will graduate at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 16. Undergraduate students in the Colleges of Business and Visual and Performing Arts will graduate at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16.

  President's Newsletter
  The latest issue of the President's Newsletter includes a letter from President Cavalier, division updates and important articles you may have missed.

• Academic Affairs

  Finish Strong, Stay Ahead
  The semester is wrapping up, but learning doesn’t have to stop. With free Coursera access through KU Advance, students can use this in-between time to build career-ready skills, explore new interests and earn certificates – on their own schedule. Whether they want to get a head start on summer goals, explore interests like AI, business or communication, or earn a certificate to boost their resume or LinkedIn profile, Coursera makes it easy to learn anytime, anywhere. A little time now can make a big difference later.

  Career Development Center
  Did you know that you can find the Kutztown University Career Development Center on LinkedIn? This page is for students, families and alumni to stay connected with companies and organizations within the KU community, along with best practices, tips and resources for career development and career success. Career coaching appointments and resume reviews are available for all students and May graduates online, over the summer.

  Advancing Accessibility and Student Support at KU
  The Disability Services Office (DSO) continues to support accessibility at Kutztown University through student-centered services and collaborative campus partnerships. Current efforts include enhancing accessible testing environments, expanding access to assistive technologies and supporting students in the effective use of approved accommodations. DSO also offers training opportunities for faculty and staff on implementing academic accommodations and creating inclusive learning environments. Topics include accessible course materials, supporting neurodiverse students and planning inclusive campus events. Additionally, DSO is exploring the expansion of its Testing Center to meet increasing demand and is collaborating with campus stakeholders to develop additional sensory-inclusive spaces to support the growing number of students who identify as neurodiverse. In partnership with campus offices, DSO supports broader institutional accessibility efforts. For more information or to request training, please contact dso@kutztown.edu.

  Student Recognition for Participating in Undergraduate Research Series
  The following students received recognition for attending a notable number of the two Spring Undergraduate Research Series workshops, coordinated by Dr. Lynn Kutch, professor and coordinator of Undergraduate Research and Creativity, supported by the Title III Grant Project:

  • Zachary Skoronski, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: attended all seven sessions and the bonus poster session.
  • Laci Skidmore, College of Education: attended five sessions.
  • Taniyah King, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences: attended five sessions.
  • Ben Markman, College of Visual and Performing Arts: attended four sessions.
  • Josh Merkel, College of Visual and Performing Arts: attended four sessions.

  Transfer Student Coordinator, Briana Tyler
  Transfer students have a dedicated resource to guide them every step of the way. Briana Tyler, coordinator for Student Success and Transfer Engagement, works one-on-one with transfer students to help them navigate their transition to KU, understand university policies and stay on track toward their academic goals. Our office supports both current KU students and those planning to transfer to KU. Students are encouraged to connect early by scheduling an appointment through Starfish to start building their path to success at KU.

  Summer Reboot Program
  The Summer Reboot Program provides support for first-year students who do not meet federal financial aid eligibility requirements for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Now entering its fifth year, the program has consistently demonstrated strong outcomes in promoting academic recovery and student success. Participants enroll in one or two summer courses, receive individual success coaching and complete an academic recovery module in D2L. Students who qualify are also eligible for up to a $750 tuition waiver to help offset the cost of their reboot courses. The program has yielded impressive results, with more than 90% of participants returning for the fall semester across the first four years. In 2022, 62 students enrolled and 93.5% achieved positive outcomes. In 2023, 61 students participated with 98.4% demonstrating successful academic progress. In 2024, 65 students participated and 92.3% achieved positive outcomes. In the 2025 cohort, 36 students participated and 86.1% had positive course outcomes. Outreach for the Summer 2026 Reboot Program will begin Wednesday, May 20. Faculty and staff are encouraged to refer students who are not meeting SAP after their first year and may benefit from this opportunity. For additional information, please contact the Center for Student Success at success@kutztown.edu.

  University Writing Center
  Please have your student(s) reach out to the KU Writing Center for writing help or to schedule a writing session concerning papers for any subject or discipline. Students can call 610-683-4733 or email wrcenter@kutztown.edu to set up an in-person appointment. They can also schedule an online appointment. Please see our website for additional helpful instructions and screenshots. Any questions can be directed to wrcenter@kutztown.edu or pytleski@kutztown.edu.

  Tutoring Services
  Is your student taking a summer class? Support is available for summer courses through Tutor.com, a virtual 24/7 tutoring platform. For instructions on how to use this service, please have your student visit the Tutoring Services website. We encourage students to take advantage of this free tutoring resource. Contact tutor@kutztown.edu with questions.

• Administration and Finance

  Authorized User Access in the Payment Dashboard
  Students can set up third parties/parents to have their own access to the Payment Dashboard, including being sent statement notice emails. The student should navigate to MyKU > Student Accounts card > Payment Dashboard > Authorized Users. We can’t recommend this enough, as students often miss emails to their KU email account and can risk losses of class schedules, late fees and holds. Having a backup supporting them is helpful.

  Fall 2026 Payment Plans Open
  While bills for Fall 2026 are prepared in July, we have longer payment plans available now using estimated costs. You don’t have to use a payment plan, but it can make paying out of pocket easier and more affordable. To determine the out-of-pocket costs, please use our Estimated Tool Worksheet. Current students can use this year’s costs as an estimate and update in July or use the estimates. New students will want to use the estimates and their award package. Simply adjust your plan amounts once the actual bills are prepared in July. Setting up a Fall 2026 payment plan is easy on the Payment Dashboard. Students navigate to MyKU > Student Accounts card > Payment Dashboard > Payment Plan. Authorized Users should navigate online. The first payment and setup fee are required to complete the process. Need help calculating the amount you need the plan for?  Email studentaccounts@kutztown.edu or call 610-683-4133.

  Fall 2026 Billing and Estimated Costs for 2026-27
  Fall 2026 bills are scheduled to be prepared mid-July in MyKU and will be due Friday, Aug. 7. Estimated costs will be online shortly for planning purposes. They will be located near the current year’s costs online.

  Spring 2026 Balances
  Any balances that are not included in approved deferments (later due date) are considered past due and moving through the collections process. Late fees include $50 a month for up to three months. Unpaid balances will be placed with the PA State Attorney General’s Office or a partner collection agency, for collections after three collection letters/statements and attempts. Holds will only be lifted once the account is paid in full. If placed with an agency such as the AG office, additional wait time will occur for the payment to clear and the hold to be released. There is still time to look at loan options such as a parent plus loan, additional Stafford loans if plus loan is denied, or private alternative loans. Once spring semester is over – those options are gone. Do not wait any longer.

  Summer 2026 Registration and Costs
  Summer 2026 registration opened mid-March. Summer costs are published online as well as page dedicated to Summer Session payment information. Due dates are assigned based on the date the registration occurs. A Summer 2026 payment plan is open now.

  Fall 2026 Housing Assignments Require Fall Classes
  All returning students must be enrolled in Fall 2026 classes to keep any room assignments they may have selected this spring. If they are not enrolled in fall classes, their room assignment could be canceled and the student will be added to a wait list for a new fall room assignment. Once they are enrolled in fall classes, they can then work with housing to obtain a new housing assignment based on availability.

  FAFSA 2025-26
  The deadline to qualify for financial aid in the current 2025-26 year, which includes the Fall 2025, Spring 2026 and Summer 2026 semesters, is Tuesday, June 30. Students seeking financial aid for consideration for this 2025-26 year must complete their 2025-26 FAFSA prior to the end of the semester in which they are enrolled in. Please note completing your FAFSA on the last day of the semester will not allow ample time for processing of student loans in a closed semester; therefore, we recommend filing your 2025-26 FAFSA no later than Friday, May 8, to allow time for processing of financial aid in the Spring 2026 semester.

  FAFSA 2026-27
  The new financial aid year begins as of Fall 2026. Please complete your 2026-27 FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure prompt processing of your financial aid awards. This will allow you to have your financial aid awards reflected prior to the Fall 2026 charges that will be due in July/August.

  PA State Grant Requirement
  Pennsylvania State Grant has a FAFSA filing deadline of Friday, May 1. New for the 2026-27 year: all Pennsylvania high school graduating senior students are required to file a FAFSA for graduation. Students wishing to opt out of the PA State FAFSA filing requirement may complete an opt-out form with their high school. For our continuing students: your FAFSA must be filed before the May 1 deadline for continued eligibility. The 2026-27 FAFSA covers the following semesters: Fall 2026, Spring 2027 and Summer 2027.

  Fall 2026 Financial Aid Loan Options
  In addition to the Federal Direct Loans offered to students, parents may apply for additional loans for the next school year in the form of a Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan. These loans are based on credit worthiness and should be applied for in June. This will allow your loans to reflect on the students’ account through MyKU by the due date. Please note that applying after June may cause processing delays. When applying for a loan, we recommend applying for the academic school year. Your loan period for the 2026-27 year should be as follows:

  Fall 2026 – Spring 2027
  - Start Date: August 24
  - End Date: May 8

  New for 2026-27: The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed into law July 4, 2025, established new loan limits for the Direct PLUS Loan Program, impacting how much parents can borrow for their eligible dependent undergraduate students. Borrowing amounts are as follows:

  - Annual Limit: Not to exceed $20,000 per year per student up to the student’s cost of attendance.
  - Lifetime Limit: $65,000 total per student.

  Students and/or parents also have the option of applying for private alternative loans. These loans are also based on credit worthiness and have various lenders to choose from. Please research the lender that works best for you as each lender has different rates. For general questions regarding loan options, please contact the Financial Aid Services Office by calling 610-683-4077, email us at financialaid@kutztown.edu or visit our office at 209 Stratton.

  Flex Dollars Expire at End of Spring 2026 Semester
  These dollars expire at the end of the year – spend them now. If you need additional funds for the rest of the school year, consider Bear Bucks that can carry over to the fall semester if unused. The ability to purchase Flex Dollars has closed for the year.

  Bear Bucks Refunds
  Students who are graduating or withdrawing from Kutztown University may request a refund of the unused funds in their Bear Bucks account. They can also choose to spend the remaining dollars in the bookstore for alumni gear, clothing or various supplies to prepare for next year. The student will need to complete the “Bear Bucks Account Closure” form and mail it to the KU Card Office, 107 Academic Forum, or they can request one from their KU email account by emailing the KU Card Office at kucard@kutztown.edu. There is typically a $10 processing fee. Once the form is approved, the refund will be processed and mailed to the home address on your MyKU account within two to four weeks.

  Financial Guide for First Time Students Online
  Over the next few months, this webpage can assist our incoming families – freshmen, transfer students and graduate students. Check it often for new information and guidance on smoothly becoming a Golden Bear.

• Student Affairs

  End of Semester Move Out
  Students will need to move out of their Spring 2026 Assignment 24 hours after their last in-person final exam or by 6 p.m. Friday, May 15, whichever comes first. Students will continue to be sent emails to their KU email with instructions they need to complete to move out of the halls and ways to avoid unnecessary billing for damages or items left behind. All rooms will be assessed and inspected for damages by professional staff after students have left for the semester. Any final charges should appear on student accounts by Saturday, May 30. The appeal process for charges will open on the date bills appear and be available until Monday, June 15. Any final charges will be due June 15 through MyKU. Please reach out to housing@kutztown.edu with any questions about potential charges, or your student's Building Director for questions about move out instructions.

  Meal Plan Selection for Current Students Now Available
  Students can log into their MyKUHousing account through Sunday, July 5 to select their meal plans for the 2026-27 academic year. Students living in Berks, Bonner, Beck, Deatrick, Dixon, Lehigh, Rothermel, Schuylkill or University Place are required to have one of the three MyTime Dining Plans: Gold, Platinum or Diamond. These plans provide unlimited access into our all-you-care-to-eat facilities, in addition to Flex Dollars. Students living in apartments or off campus can select from any of our meal plans. Students can select their meal plans by logging into their MyKUHousing account. Specific step-by-step instructions have been sent to their KU email. Our meal plans can be found online.

  Public Safety and Police Services
  Public Safety and Police Services are gearing up for another May Commencement. We are excited to see the hard work of our graduating seniors come to fruition and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors. As our students depart for summer break, our department will shift focus to the upcoming Camps and Conference season. We are anticipating a busy summer with a high volume of events across campus and will continue preparing to ensure a safe and successful season for all attendees. We are excited to announce that we are officially on Instagram.

  Last Blood Drive of the Semester
  We are hosting the last blood drive of the spring semester 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 6, Student Recreation Center East Gym. Whether your student missed the last one or is ready to donate again, this is a vital opportunity to support local hospitals and save lives. Sign up online.

  Flutter into Spring: Butterfly Garden and Yoga
  Welcome the arrival of warmer weather and find your Zen at the Pop-Up Butterfly Garden and Yoga event Friday, May 1. Students can head over to the MSU Lawn between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to be wowed by a beautiful, temporary habitat filled with vibrant butterflies. Whether they want to practice their downward dog in the fresh air or simply admire the scenery, it’s a peaceful and picturesque way to celebrate the season and recharge during the final weeks of the semester.

  May the Fourth Be With You
  Is the force strong with your student? Whether they are a Jedi Master or just a casual fan from a galaxy far, far away, encourage them to head to 218 MSU, 7 p.m. Monday, May 4, for Star Wars Trivia. It's the ultimate chance to test their knowledge of lightsabers, droids and epic space battles while hanging out with fellow fans. Whether they come for the glory or just for the fun, it's bound to be an out-of-this-world night – no mind tricks required. More information can be found on Engage.

  Last Commuter Tuesday of Spring
  Join us for a free lunch 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 223 MSU. It’s a great opportunity to grab a bite to eat, connect with fellow commuters and learn about campus resources.

  Paws and Relax: Pet Therapy on the Lawn
  Help your student shake off that end-of-semester stress 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, May 7, MSU Lawn. KUAB is bringing some furry friends to campus for a day of wagging tails and relaxation. It’s the perfect opportunity for students to take a deep breath, step away from the books and recharge with some much-needed pet therapy. Encourage them to stop by the lawn for some sunshine and puppy love. It's guaranteed to be the most "paws-itive" part of their week.

  Community Picnic at Saucony Cross
  Your student is invited to share a meal and some sunshine at the Saucony Cross Picnic Potluck 2-4 p.m. Friday, May 8. This festive afternoon is all about building connections and enjoying good food with our local neighbors. Whether they bring a favorite dish to share or simply come to help serve and socialize, it's a perfect way to celebrate the end of the spring semester and the arrival of warmer weather. It’s more than just a meal – it’s a great chance to make a positive impact and enjoy the Kutztown community spirit! Sign up online.

  Fuel Up for Finals: Breakfast Snacks
  Help your student power through their exams with a visit to the MSU Monday, May 11 and Tuesday, May 12. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., we'll be serving up a variety of delicious breakfast treats to keep those energy levels high. Whether they’re craving a fresh yogurt parfait, a muffin or a classic donut, swinging by for a snack is the perfect way to take a quick brain break and recharge before the next study session. Finals are tough, but a little fuel can go a long way.

• University Relations and Athletics

  Commencement Coverage
  The Spring Commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed for any friends and family unable to attend. Links to photos, programs and all other commencement information will be found at the Commencement Coverage website. 

  Football Tickets
  Season packages for 2026 Golden Bears Football will be available Wednesday, July 1. Previous season package holders will receive information about renewing in late May. If you are interested in joining the wait lists or upgrading current locations, please fill out this form by Sunday, May 31.

  Facebook Groups
  Kutztown University offers official Facebook groups for each active class year, from the Class of 2026 through the Class of 2030. These private groups provide an opportunity for families and supporters to communicate directly with each other and discuss issues related to their students. If your student is joining the Golden Bear family this fall, you can request to join Kutztown University Class of 2030 (Official).

• KU Campus Store

  Textbook Sellback
  Textbook sellback is a great opportunity to get cash back on course materials. Sellback is May 4-15, KU Campus Store.

  Order your Official Kutztown University Ring
  Balfour is bringing the tradition to you. Shop Balfour's collection of class rings.

• KU Foundation

  Senior Toast May 14
  Parents of Spring 2026 graduates: encourage your student to register for the Senior Toast 4 p.m. Thursday, May 14, 250 MSU. Sponsored by the KU Foundation and the Career Development Center, this exclusive event includes delightful refreshments and a champagne/sparkling cider toast and the opportunity to mingle with classmates and KU’s newly inaugurated president, Dr. Philip Cavalier. Register online.

  Honor your KU Grad's Achievements
  Looking for a way to celebrate your Golden Bear? Consider having your graduate's name engraved on a brick in Alumni Plaza. Learn how to purchase a brick in the plaza, one of the most popular spots on campus.

• Dates to Know

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

  FAFSA must be processed before May 1, 2026, for state grant eligibility. For additional information, contact the Financial Aid Office.	Friday, May 1
  Application deadline for Fall 2026 for Doctoral Social Work Program	Friday, May 1
  Application deadline for Summer 2026 for Graduate Studies	Friday, May 1
  Textbook Sellback at KU Campus Store	May 4-15
  Last Day to "W" withdraw from a Spring 2026 Second Half of Term Course and receive a grade of “W”. There is no withdrawal from individual courses after this date.	Monday, May 4
  Last Day to "W" withdraw from a Spring 2026 Five-Week C Course and receive a grade of “W”. There is no withdrawal from individual courses after this date.	Thursday, May 7
  Last Day of Spring 2026 Regular Classes (Full Semester, 10W, Second Half, and Five-Week C)	Saturday, May 9
  Final Examinations begin	Monday, May 11
  Registrar to create grade rosters for Spring 2026	Monday, May 11
  Last day for Graduate students to make up “Incompletes” from the Spring 2025 and Summer 2025 semester	Thursday, May 14
  Registration for Fall 2026 closes. Reopens Tuesday, Aug. 4.	Friday, May 15
  Graduate Commencement, 5 p.m.	Friday, May 15
  Residence halls close at 6 p.m. Anyone with Saturday examinations or graduating seniors must make special arrangements with Housing and Residential Services in advance.	Friday, May 15
  Final Examinations end	Saturday, May 16
  Undergraduate Commencement, 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.	Saturday, May 16
  Last Day of Spring 2026 Semester (Full Semester, 10W, Second Half, and Five-Week C)	Saturday, May 16
  All Spring 2026 Semester grades must be submitted by noon.	Tuesday, May 19
  Spring 2026 grades available through MyKU at 8 p.m., unless notified.	Tuesday, May 19
  Final decisions for cancellation of classes for the Summer I and 10 Week 2026 sessions (subject to change)	Friday, May 22
  Memorial Day – University Closed	Monday, May 25
  List of Spring 2026 Undergraduate Honors (Dean’s List) to be forwarded to the appropriate College Deans by the Registrar’s Office	Wednesday, May 27
  Summer Session I 2026 begins	Wednesday, May 27
  Summer Session 10-Week 2026 begins	Wednesday, May 27
  Deadline to add/drop a Summer Session I course without receiving a grade of “W”	Thursday, May 28
  Last day to drop a course with 100% reduction or refund ends at midnight. No reduction of charges or refunds for individual courses after midnight (Summer Session I only).	Thursday, May 28
  Deadline to add/drop a Summer Session 10W course without receiving a grade of “W”	Friday, May 29
  Summer I and Summer 10W Inclusive Access Opt-Out Deadline	Friday, May 29
  Make-up classes held for Summer Session I	Sunday, May 31