November 2025

Volume 8, Issue 4

• Campus Announcements

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

• Academic Affairs

  Freedom Place and Ed House at Deatrick Hall: Where Community Meets Purpose in the College of Education
  The College of Education at Kutztown University proudly supports two special interest housing communities that foster connection, purpose and academic success.

  Freedom Place, advised by Dr. Scott Tracy, is a supportive, sober-living community where students commit to a chemical-free lifestyle and participate in social, academic and service activities promoting personal growth. Sponsored by KU's Office of Health Promotions and endorsed by the President's Round Table on Alcohol and Other Drug Use, it exemplifies holistic student support. Interested students can contact Tracy at stracy@kutztown.edu.

  Ed House at Deatrick Hall provides education majors with an engaging living-learning environment focused on collaboration, shared goals and faculty mentorship. For more information, please contact advisors Dr. Michele White or Dr. Jenefer Gehringer. For more detailed information, please visit the College of Education or Special Interest Housing Communities websites.

  Give Thanks – and Give Your Student the Gift of Learning
  This Thanksgiving, remind your student to take advantage of a wonderful opportunity – free Coursera courses available through KU. Encourage your student to browse courses in areas like AI, business, technology and personal development. These flexible, online courses help students explore interests, build career skills and earn verifiable certificates from top universities and industry leaders at no cost. It is a great way to turn holiday downtime into valuable experience for the future. Start today.

  Fall 2025 Hands-On Sport Management Opportunities
  The Department of Sport Management is offering students exciting, real-world experiences. In SPRT 236: Personal Selling in Sport, students are competing in the Philadelphia Flyers College Sales Program, going head-to-head with other universities in a professional sales challenge. The Sport Management Club is also stepping onto the national stage, participating in the National Collegiate Sport Sales Championship to gain valuable industry exposure. Meanwhile, students in SPRT 285 are partnering with Pocono Raceway to develop a comprehensive marketing plan project, presenting strategies to attract and engage audiences ages 18-34. These hands-on opportunities reflect the department's commitment to experiential learning, helping students apply classroom knowledge, build professional skills and prepare for successful careers in the sport industry.

  Transfer Student Coordinator
  Did you know Kutztown University has a dedicated staff member to support transfer students, Briana Tyler? Tyler provides one-on-one guidance, helping them connect with academic advising, understanding university policies and staying on track toward graduation. Be sure to have your student connect with Tyler if they're thinking about withdrawing from a course prior to the Nov. 14 deadline. She can also discuss the benefits of taking a Winter course. Encourage your student to meet with Tyler for guidance by scheduling an appointment in Starfish.

  Tutoring Services
  Whether your student is struggling in a class or wants to get a better grade, Tutoring Services is here to help. Students can sign up for a tutor directly in Starfish using the Tutoring Services appointment link next to their course or by using the "I Need Help" button in Starfish. Please encourage your student to take advantage of this valuable resource.

  Tutoring Services is recruiting peer tutors and academic peer mentors for Spring 2026. If your student is interested in this employment opportunity, please have them complete the Tutoring Services Employment Application 2025-2026. More information can be found on the Tutoring Services website. Students may also contact tutor@kutztown.edu with questions.

  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.

  Art Exhibition: Stay Alive and Make Art: The Art of Amos Lemon Burkhart
  Visit the Marlin and Regina Miller Gallery Oct. 16 to Dec. 14 for an exhibition presented by the Department of Art and Design. This interactive show encourages conversations about creativity, mental illness and addiction to help inspire artists to stay alive and make art. Learn more at the Marlin and Regina Miller Gallery website.

  KU Percussion Ensemble Performs at the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion
  The KU Percussion Ensemble presented the first concert of the 2025-26 academic year Tuesday, Oct. 21. The concert featured students from the largest percussion program in the department's history. Thirty students joined to present music from the Gordon Peters Marimba Masters Collection, a large work for 12 percussionists and a world premiere featuring Dr. Andrew Veit as percussion soloist. Their performance was held to a standing room only audience in the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research.

  Valerie Naranjo, internationally acclaimed percussionist, composer and longtime member of the Saturday Night Live Band, performed a fusion of global rhythms and contemporary percussion Friday, Oct. 24, including her signature work on the Ghanaian gyil. Learn more at the Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research website.

  KU Presents! Performance Series
  KU Presents! brings world-class entertainment to Kutztown University and the surrounding region. With everything from classical to country and dance to drama, KU Presents! both entertains and enlightens audiences. An exciting new initiative this year, KU Presents! student membership applies to any student, kindergarten to graduate school. For only $25, a student can become a member and pick their seats to as many shows as they like. Access your $25 student ticket online. The next events include a cappella sensation Voctave Wednesday, Nov. 19, and Irish dream-team Lúnasa Friday, Dec. 5, with more this spring. There's something for everyone at KU Presents! Lean more at the KU Presents! website.

• Finance and Facilities

  Registration Holds
  Students who still owe any money for the Fall 2025 semester (or before) may be blocked from Spring registration. Please remember that students must have a Spring schedule in order to move back into their room assignment in January. There is still time to apply for additional loans or make payment. Don't delay as some loan options will no longer be available after the last week of classes. Financial Aid Services is a great resource to call at 610-683-4077.

  Winter 2025-26
  Winter session is unique at KU. Courses are online only. This session is not an aid-bearing session, which means any aid would go through the Fall semester, not Spring. Any unused Fall aid could be considered for Winter, as well as alternative loans taken in the Fall (August to December loan period). Spring aid cannot be used for Winter. Since each student’s situation is different, we do encourage a discussion with Financial Aid Services to assess options. Do not delay, as Winter has rolling due dates and drop for non-payment will occurring on a rolling basis. Winter costs can be viewed online.

  Payment Plans
  Winter 2025-26 and Spring 2026 both have payment plans open. The better and longer options are open now. Payment Dashboard > Payment Plans.

  Permanent Address and Personal Email Changes
  Now is a great time for students to review their permanent home address and personal emails on MyKU to ensure they are current (the permanent address is where we will mail 1098Ts at the end of January). Emails can be reviewed in the Profile on MyKU (many students use their high school email and forget to update it). Students can visit the Registrar’s Office, or the student can use the online form. This must be updated by Monday, Dec. 15 for 1098T’s – do not delay.

  Bear Bucks Donations
  If a graduating student would like to donate the remaining funds in their Bear Bucks account, please contact the KU Foundation at 610-683-4110 or info@kuf.org for more information and the donation form. Other questions about Bear Bucks and refunds from them should be directed to the KU Card office at kucard@kutztown.edu.

  Running Low on Bear Bucks or Flex Dollars?
  Bear Bucks and Flex dollars can be added online throughout the year. Bear Bucks do not expire, but Flex dollars expire at the end of the academic year. We are using a store front site now, so there is a delay from the time the items are purchased and added to the students ID card.

  State Grant Delays – Assistance
  We know that the state grant delays have affected our students in many ways. To help students with groceries and school supplies, we are offering students the chance to get an advance of an approved expected and approved state-grant credit in the form of Bear Bucks. Students can complete a request form online.  They can choose from $300, $200 or $100 – not to exceed their expected refund. Students who are denied this request will receive an email stating why. This offer will expire when the state reaches a budget and the funds start to be paid to Kutztown University for our students. This offer is only for credits expected from the Pennsylvania state grant program and the grant must be accepted and shown as a credit expected. Read online for more information.

• Student Affairs

  Important Housing Dates
  Thanksgiving Break: Students are encouraged to leave campus by Tuesday, Nov. 25. Residence halls close 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, and reopen 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30.

  End of Fall Semester: Residence halls close 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12. Students must leave within 24 hours of their last in-person final or by the deadline – whichever comes first. Halls reopen for Spring 2026 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25.

  2026-2027 Room Selection
  We are so excited that students are already thinking about where to live for the 2026-2027 academic year. Information about the room-selection process for next year will be sent to students' KU emails this month. Students must live on campus their first two years at KU, unless they are approved for a residency-requirement exception though the Residency Exception Request process. Students must be sure they have met the residency requirement before signing an off-campus lease. Please ask your Golden Bear to be on the lookout for emails about 2026-2027 room selection.

  KU Student Financial Emergency Support and Resource Team
  Kutztown University is committed to assisting students facing unexpected financial emergencies through the Student Financial Emergency Support and Resource Team. This initiative helps connect KU students facing unexpected financial emergencies with funds and resources, allowing them to remain focused on their education. Students can submit a request using the online Student Financial Emergency Assistance Request Form. Each request is reviewed individually by the team to ensure timely and appropriate follow-up and support. Parents and families are encouraged to inform their students about this valuable resource. For more information, visit the KU Student Financial Emergency Support and Resource Team webpage. By working together, we can help ensure that financial emergencies do not impede our students' educational journeys.

  Office of Student Assistance
  The KU Office of Student Assistance is dedicated to helping students navigate circumstances that may impact their academic and personal success. This office provides guidance, resources and support to students facing difficult situations such as financial concerns, academic struggles, personal hardships or accessing campus services. Parents and families play a vital role in student success, and the Office of Student Assistance is here to collaborate with you. If your student needs help, they can connect with the office for individualized support and referrals to the appropriate campus resources. Encourage your student to reach out if they are experiencing a difficult situation – early intervention can make all the difference. For more information, visit the Office of Student Assistance website or email studentassistance@kutztown.edu. Together, we can ensure every Golden Bear has the support they need to thrive.

  Veterans Awareness Week Nov. 3-11
  Show your student veteran or military-affiliated student how much you appreciate them. Kutztown University values our students and will be honoring our military and veteran community during Veterans Awareness Week. Visit our website to see how you can celebrate our students and learn more about Veterans Awareness Week events.

  Transgender Awareness Week Nov. 17-21
  This week involves a visual display at the Brass Rail, MSU, and activities around bringing awareness to transgender individuals: accomplishments, journeys and struggles. This week includes Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR), which honors those who lost their lives due to acts of hate and transphobia.

  Transgender Day of Remembrance Table
  Stop by the Transgender Day of Remembrance table 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, MSU. We will also have a Transgender Awareness table available all week with pride materials and resources.

  Lavender Graduation
  Join us noon Sunday, Dec. 7, Boxwood House, for a celebration for all graduating students who participate in LGBTQ+ and Women's Center's organizations. This is an opportunity to recognize the achievements of our seniors and celebrate together. RSVP on Engage.

  Feminist Friday
  Join us at the Women's Center for fun and interactive crafts, journaling and a variety of activities with a feminist twist 2-3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, and Friday, Dec. 4, Boxwood House.

  Multicultural Center Events
  "Ah, fall. The season where students feel like squirrels stuck in their dorms, waiting for Thanksgiving freedom!" But fear not, because the Multicultural Center (MCC) has a lineup of fun just for you. Chilly outside? Warm up with a cup of Mexican hot cocoa at the MCC's Dia de los Muertos table 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3. Got a knack for words? Show off at our Gratitude Spoken Word Night 5-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. Craving a cultural adventure? Dive into our Indigenous Showcase 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12. Sample scrumptious foods, soak in history and join in on the fun. Feeling a tad homesick? Join us for the MCC's annual Friendsgiving Bash 2-9 p.m., Multicultural Center, with mouthwatering traditional and international dishes, thrilling games with prizes and a whole lot of community spirit. Check out our socials for more details.

  MSU Events
  Ready to put your culinary smarts to the test? Join us for Food Trivia 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10, 223 MSU. Whether you're a gourmet expert or just love to eat, grab your friends for a fun evening of delicious questions and competition. Then, mark your calendars for more brain-teasing fun with our special Holiday Trivia event 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, 223 MSU. It's the perfect way to kick off the festive season.

  Commuter Student Events
  Need a break from packing your lunch? We're treating you! Stop by for a free lunch just for our commuter students while supplies last. It’s a great chance to grab a bite, relax and connect. Mark your calendar 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, and Tuesday, Dec. 2, 223 MSU. Don't miss out on this tasty perk.

  Community Outreach Center Events
  Mark your calendar for an action-packed November. We have plenty of opportunities to serve your community, get informed and have some fun. Community Clean-Up is 10 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 2. KU Votes Bingo is 5:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5. Empanada Sale is 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, while supplies last in the MSU lobby. Golden Bear Bazaar is 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, 218 MSU. Smoothie Social Fundraiser is 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12. Firefly Bookstore Fundraiser is Saturday, Nov. 15, and Sunday, Nov. 16. Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is Nov. 17-21. Hunger Banquet is 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 250 MSU.

  Miss Savannah Bells Boot Stomping Fun
  Country Line Dancing hosted by Miss Savannah Bell is coming to Kutztown University for one night only, 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, 218 MSU. More information can be found on Engage.

  Longwood Gardens Student Bus Trip
  The Longwood Gardens Student Bus Trip is Saturday, Nov. 22 (tickets go on sale Wednesday, Nov. 5). Students can purchase tickets for a bus trip to visit the dazzling holiday lights display at Longwood Gardens. Details about where to buy tickets can be found on Engage.

  Flyers vs. Colorado Avalanche Student Bus Trip Dec. 7
  Take a break from studying for finals to come on this special bus trip to see the Philadelphia Flyers face off against the Colorado Avalanche Sunday, Dec. 7. Bus departs from the MSU parking lot at 10:45 a.m. Students should be back to campus by 5 p.m. Tickets for KU students go on sale 8 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19. Additional information is available on Engage.

  KUAB Disney Movie Trivia
  Test your Disney and Pixar Trivia Knowledge 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 183 MSU. More information can be found on Engage.

  Greek Life Turkey Bowl
  Join Kutztown Fraternal Council for its annual Turkey Bowl Flag Football competition 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, Andre Reed Stadium. Details can be found on Engage.

  Cookies and Cocoa
  Sip some cocoa, decorate a sugar cookie, color a few coloring pages and unwind before finals. More information can be found on Engage.

  KUAB Pet Therapy
  Need a little stress relief? Come meet some scaly and slimy friends 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, 218 MSU. Visit Engage for more information.

  Exam Snacks
  Fuel up with some fun breakfast treats before your finals, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, and Tuesday, Dec. 9, MSU Atrium. Visit Engage for more information.

  Join KUAB
  Want to help plan awesome events? Join the Kutztown University Activities Board (KUAB). Meetings are 4:30 p.m. every Thursday, 166 MSU. Email kuab@kutztown.edu with questions.

• Equity, Compliance and Legal Affairs

  Student Employment Opportunities
  Data shows that students who work on campus remain in college at a much higher rate than other students. Students who work on campus learn valuable skills and earn extra money under flexible schedules that accommodate their class schedules and academic needs, while building strong connections with staff and faculty. Student job opportunities are listed in Handshake. Students working on campus for the first time will need to complete payroll paperwork and background checks and present I-9 documents, so your student will need to bring their original unexpired document(s) to Human Resources before they can begin to work. 

  Faculty/Staff Employment Opportunities
  KU is a great place for your students to learn and grow, but did you know our beautiful campus is also a great place to work? Eligible employees are offered a wide range of benefits, career growth and development opportunities and tuition waiver. Current opportunities are listed on our website.

  Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) Training
  Kutztown University Public Safety and Police Services will be hosting Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) training Nov. 3, Nov. 4, and Nov. 6. The R.A.D. program is designed to teach women vital self-defense concepts and techniques in a supportive and encouraging environment. The curriculum begins with a foundation of awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance strategies before progressing to the fundamentals of hands-on defense training. Please note, R.A.D. is not a martial arts program, and no prior experience is required to participate.

  Key features of the R.A.D. program include:

  • Expert Instruction: All training is conducted by certified R.A.D. instructors from our own Kutztown University Police Department.
  • Empowerment: The course provides the knowledge and skills necessary for women to make an educated and confident decision about resistance.
  • Comprehensive Resources: Participants receive a workbook/reference manual to keep for continued practice. Courtesy of KUPD, all course materials are provided at no cost.
  • Lifetime Policy: The R.A.D. program offers a unique free lifetime return and practice policy, valid at any R.A.D. class offered anywhere in the world.

  We believe that empowerment through education is a critical component of personal safety. We strongly encourage all interested female students, faculty and staff to take advantage of this valuable training. To enroll, please visit the registration page on our university website.

  NextGen Leader with Disability:IN
  Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply to become a NextGen Leader with Disability:IN, a leading nonprofit advancing disability inclusion in business. The NextGen Leader Initiative connects college students and recent graduates with disabilities to mentorship and employment opportunities within top companies. Participants are matched one-on-one with a corporate mentor from a Disability:IN partner company and have the opportunity to network with major employers such as Boeing, Facebook, JPMorgan Chase, Microsoft and more. Students interested in corporate careers and professional development are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information and to submit an application, visit the Disability: IN website.

  Homecoming Success
  The 2025 Kutztown University Homecoming, with an estimated on-campus attendance of 8,000 to 10,000 people, was deemed a significant success, utilizing the Kutztown University Public Safety and Police Services pre-planned Incident Action Plan (IAP). The IAP ensured the smooth execution of a weekend packed with diverse events for students, alumni and friends, Friday, Oct. 17, to Sunday, Oct. 19. The IAP's focus on organization, safety and clear communication was evident in the handling of a large crowd across multiple simultaneous activities. The well-executed IAP allowed the focus to remain on celebrating school spirit, connecting with the alumni community and supporting the university's mission, resulting in a safe, vibrant and well-attended Homecoming celebration.

• University Relations and Athletics

  Read Tower Magazine
  The 2025 issue of Tower, Kutztown University's magazine, is available online. Read about President Philip Cavalier and check out more articles and alumni news.

  Get Your Tickets to Support the KU Golden Bears
  Tickets, tailgate permits and parking passes are available for upcoming football games. Tickets for regular season basketball will be available Saturday, Nov. 1. KU students can access one free general admission ticket per game by logging in for tickets with their MyKU login.

• KU Campus Store

  First Friday Sale: Nov 7
  Every first Friday of each month save 20% on apparel and gift. In store and online.

  Veteran's Awareness Week Sale: Nov. 3-11
  40% off apparel and gift for: KU military, veteran and military-affiliated students, faculty and staff. KU students using military benefits: present your KU ID to the cashier to receive your discount. KU military and veteran alumni: contact the Military and Veterans Services Office to receive discount code. All others must provide proof of service (military ID card, DD214, driver's license with a veteran identifier).

  One Hour Sale: Nov. 13
  One day and one hour only: 11 a.m. to noon, KU Campus Store; 7-8 p.m. Dixon Marketplace.

  Regalia for Sale at KU Campus Store
  Fall Graduates purchase your regalia at the KU Campus Store.

  Black Friday Sale: Nov. 28
  Online only sale. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @kucampusstore to see what our deal is.

  Cyber Monday: Dec. 1
  Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @kucampusstore to see what our deal is.

  12 Days of Deals: Dec. 1-12
  Stop in KU Campus Store each day until Friday, Dec. 12, to see the deal of the day.

  Textbook Sell Back: Dec. 1-12
  Sellback your textbooks for cash.

• KU Foundation

  Thank You for Supporting the 1866 Minute Giving Challenge
  The KU Foundation would like to thank everyone who participated in the 1866 Minute Giving Challenge, Oct. 15-16. In just 1,866 minutes, the KU community raised more than $394,000 to support academics, athletics, capital projects and student clubs and organizations – and gifts through Homecoming weekend brought the total to more than $422,000. Thank you for helping us build a culture of philanthropy at KU.

  Honor your KU Grad's Achievements
  Looking for a way to celebrate your Golden Bear’s December graduation? Consider having your graduate's name engraved on a brick in Alumni Plaza. Learn more online about how to purchase a brick in the plaza, one of the most popular spots on campus. Completed order forms can be emailed to gautier@kuf.org.

• Dates to Know

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

  Application deadline to Winter 2026 for Graduate Studies. Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions for specifics as some programs fill courses prior to the application deadline.	Saturday, Nov. 1
  Early Registration for Spring 2026 classes for Sophomores (completed 30+ credits prior to Fall 2025) online starting at 8:30 a.m.	Tuesday, Nov. 4
  Admissions Open House	Saturday, Nov. 8
  Spring 2026 Open Enrollment	Nov. 13 to Dec. 4
  Last Day to "W" withdraw from Fall 2025 Full Semester and 10W Courses	Friday, Nov. 14
  Last Day to Withdraw/LOA from Fall 2025	Friday, Nov. 14
  Thanksgiving Recess. No Classes. Administrative Offices Open.	Wednesday, Nov. 26
  Last Day to "W" withdraw from a Fall 2025 Second Half of Term Course	Wednesday, Nov. 26
  Residence halls close 9 a.m. for Thanksgiving Recess.	Wednesday, Nov. 26
  Thanksgiving Day – University Closed	Nov. 27-30
  Residence halls open 1 p.m. after Thanksgiving Recess.	Sunday, Nov. 30