Kutztown University Presidential Profile

SEARCH PROFILE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

1 Kutztown University (KU) seeks nominations and applications for a passionate, dynamic, engaging, inclusive, mission-focused, and visionary leader to serve as its thirteenth president. With more than 130 areas of study, a strong and dedicated community of faculty and staff, and a picturesque, 289-acre campus, there is so much to discover at Kutztown University. KU is a warm, welcoming community that’s grounded in a strong work ethic. The university’s 7,468 students, approximately 27% of which are first time college students, are people of strong character who are willing to work hard to realize their potential. They come from 34 states and 40 nations, and 76,000 alumni can be found across the U.S. and beyond. Students come to KU knowing that they will be supported and challenged. Our undergraduate programs are offered in the colleges of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Visual and Performing Arts, Business, and Education. There are also more than 40 graduate areas of study, including two doctoral programs. An Honors Program, study abroad, internships, student/faculty research, and ex- periential learning opportunities round out the academic experience. KU is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and was founded in 1866 as Keystone State Normal School. It became Kutztown State Teachers College in 1928, Kutztown State College in 1960, and achieved university status in 1983. Today, Kutztown University is a modern, regional, public, master’s comprehensive institution and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Many academic programs are also accredited, while the faculty is teaching-focused with scholarly expertise. They provide individual attention to students, and 90 percent of our tenure/tenure track faculty have doctorates or terminal degrees. When students leave Kutztown University, they are prepared for their personal and professional lives. That means knowing how to persevere in the face of a challenge and always doing more than the minimum that’s expected. KU graduates are capable of accomplishing whatever goals they set for themselves. Because when a person of the right character and work ethic meets a supportive yet challenging environment, the result is someone who is fully prepared for their future. PRESIDENT: ABOUT KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY

2 Enrollment • 7,468 undergraduate and graduate students; 59% women/41% men • 34 states and 40 countries are represented; most students are from Pennsylvania • Average class size is 29 Retention and Graduation Rates • 1st-year retention rate: 77.8% • 4-year graduation rate: 44% • 6-year graduation rate: 54% Financial Aid • More than 80% of students receive financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, or campus employment. KU awards scholarships based on academic merit. Faculty • Teacher-scholars engaged in research, writing and consulting • 90% tenure and tenure-track faculty have their doctorate or terminal degree • Student/Faculty Ratio of 18:1 Alumni • 76,000 KU graduates can be found across the U.S. and beyond. Shortly after the close of the Civil War, residents of upper Berks County were able to turn their thoughts from mere survival on the frontier toward building a modern society. One of their first concerns was the preparation of young people to take their places in the developing industrial economy. Before any of these dreams could be realized, the inadequate number of school teachers had to be bolstered. To that end, on September 15, 1866, the Keystone State Normal School was established on what is now the site of Old Main. The depth and sophistication of teacher training continued to increase with the complexity of industrialized society, and the needs of a burgeoning industrialization in the region placed more and more demands on teacher preparation. The institution met this challenge and, in 1928, was designated as Kutztown State Teacher’s College and authorized to confer the bachelor’s degree. Eventually, the area’s need for liberally educated personnel to staff its industries outstripped the need for teachers. In 1960, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania changed the institution’s name to Kutztown State College and diversified its goals toward “A center for learning for the best possible education of the youth of Pennsylvania in the arts and sciences and preparation of able and dedicated teachers.” On July 1, 1983, Kutztown State College became Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, a member of the new State System of Higher Education. Since that time, Kutztown University has continued to grow and diversify in facilities, research, and staff. During the 2015-16 academic year, Kutztown University celebrated its Sesquicentennial, marking 150 years of service to the region and community. KU FAST FACTS HISTORY

3 Our Mission The mission of Kutztown University is to provide affordable high-quality undergraduate, graduate, and lifelong learning opportunities that empower students of all ages for their intellectual, social, civic, and career endeavors. Our Vision Kutztown University aspires to be a regional center of excellence providing opportunities for advanced academic, cultural, and public service experiences, within a caring community, designed to promote success in a global society. Our Purpose Grounded in regional history and focused on innovative futures through the colleges of Business, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Visual and Performing Arts, Kutztown University: • offers a contemporary liberal arts education as the foundation for inspiring and challenging students to grow intellectually, professionally, ethically, civically, and socially; • provides support for students to reach their unique potential; • commits to access and diversity, drawing upon international, national, regional, and community partnerships to prepare new generations of global citizens; • values the life experiences of students, faculty, and staff to create a caring community on a beautiful campus; and • cultivates opportunities for students to engage the world and pursue meaningful lives and careers through collaboration, mentorship, and intentional working relationships. Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) consists of 10 state- owned universities serving more than 80,000 students. PASSHE is led by a 20-member Board of Governors that sets broad policy and direction for the system and the universities. Headed by a system chancellor, PASSHE’s executive offices provide advice and support to the Board of Governors and the universities. The president reports through the chancellor to the Board of Governors. In recent years, PASSHE has made transformative changes that have set it on a solid trajectory. While there is more work to do on every front, today PASSHE enjoys: • Improved financial stability • Improved enrollment trends • Improved student affordability due to undergraduate tuition frozen since 2018 • Improved relationships with elected leaders • Increased state investment. As a PASSHE university, KU has access to shared services and resources, opportunity for cross-collaboration with sister institutions, and increased financial support from the state — in the last few years alone, state funding for PASSHE universities increased approximately 30 percent. The Board of Governors establishes broad educational, fiscal, and personnel policy for the system. Among other tasks, the board appoints the chancellor and university presidents, approves new academic programs, sets tuition, and MISSION, VISION, AND PURPOSE PASSHE: PENNSYLVANIA’S STATE SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION

4 coordinates and approves the annual operating budget and annual appropriations request. In addition, each university has an 11-member Council of Trustees that sets broad policy and supports the university and president with a variety of local issues. Per statute, the council must have at least two alumni members and one student representative. Members of the council are appointed by the governor of Pennsylvania for a six-year term and are eligible for reappointment. The chancellor is an ex-officio member of every university Council of Trustees in the State System. The Shared Governance System at KU has been termed a tripartite governance structure because there are three main bodies that oversee the creation of policies and procedures for governance. The Shared Governance System also includes certain staff committees that do not report to these three main bodies. These committees report to administrators. However, faculty and staff appointments to these committees are still made by the Committee on Committees. The university has a shared governance system with responsibilities and powers shared among the University Senate, the faculty union (Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculty [APSCUF]), and the Administrative Council. The University Senate represents the faculty and professional staff, and initiates and/or reviews all academic policies and procedures that impact upon the university. Regular meetings are held throughout the academic year and special meetings are held at the call of the Senate President. To help manage matters that come before the University Senate and to facilitate the University Senate’s role in university governance, the Committee on Committees (chaired by the Senate Vice President) has responsibility for providing information and recommendations in matters related to university governance. To fulfill the many tasks associated with their mandate, the Committee on Committees oversees a number of reporting committees, which gather information, deliberate, and make recommendations in matters appropriate to their area of responsibility. The University Senate also has the responsibility, through its Committee on Committees, to review the structure of the Senate Committees, Administrative Council Committees, and Staff-related Committees. Constituents who would like to serve on one of the Governance Committees fill out a form, and the Committee on Committees fills vacancies from the responses. Students must express their wishes to serve on Governance Committees to the Student Governing Board (SGB). APSCUF ensures that the faculty Collective Bargaining Agreement is honored and that conditions of faculty employment are protected. Governance responsibilities for the faculty are identified through the University Senate Constitution and Bylaws and through the Faculty Collective Bargaining Agreement. Administrative Council functions as a representative body of all constituent groups within the university to initiate or review all non-academic policies and procedures which impact the university. GOVERNANCE

5 Kutztown University utilizes a “living document” practice for our strategic plan. This involves yearly discussion and revision to meet the needs and goals of our students and our region. The goals below were reaffirmed in Fall 2023. Goal 1: Academic Excellence Kutztown University will promote, enhance, and sustain academic excellence, through creativity, scholarship, and innovative teaching and learning environments as we prepare students for a successful future and lifelong learning. In this effort, we will work to promote exceptional teaching through ongoing professional development, remain committed to ongoing improvements through regular and rigorous assessment, encourage faculty research and creative activity, and engage students in experiential learning across their academic career. Goal 2: Student Success Kutztown University will foster a culture that supports student success and well-being. In this work, we will attend to students’ academic, career, social, and emotional well-being needs. We will continue to work to improve retention and success of students, while ensuring that they are career-ready, and have opportunities to grow as individuals, as well as scholars. Goal 3: Community and Civic Engagement Kutztown University will partner with the community to serve the needs of the people of the commonwealth, the region, and the global community. These partnerships will include efforts to meet workforce needs in the region, supply opportunities for lifelong learning, and engage with alumni and the community through events and mutual service opportunities. Goal 4: Caring Campus Community Kutztown University will value and respect all campus constituents and embrace shared governance. We will continue to work toward a campus culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Our work will include increasing diversity of campus populations, supporting professional development related to DEI, encouraging assessment and accountability for DEI work, and engaging in ongoing shared governance. Goal 5: Sustainability of Resources and Stewardship of Place Kutztown University will maintain and enhance human, physical, and financial resources necessary to fulfill its mission. As we work to increase overall university enrollment, we will endeavor to maintain a balanced budget, attain fiscal sustainability, grow endowments, and seek opportunities to ensure the affordability of a KU education. We will maintain and enhance the campus through technological, capital, and environmental projects. STRATEGIC PLAN

6 KU values and appreciates the differences and unique aspects each individual brings to our campus community. The diverse perspectives, ideas, background and abilities of our faculty, staff, and students help to create an environment for which each member can grow and ultimately be more prepared to thrive in our ever-changing society. As a community, KU strive tirelessly to be open to change, listen to those who find challenge in this space, and respond in a way that makes everyone feel valued. KU has many initiatives and offices to support its commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion: KU Multicultural Center: Serving all Kutztown University students, our purpose is to provide activities and services focusing on the exploration of cultural and racial identity, awareness, and social exchange, as well as assist with personal and academic growth and leadership skills development. The core mission is to provide a safe environment conducive to and encompassing concepts of community and unity. Women’s Center: Established in 1988, The Kutztown University Women’s Center strives to create a campus culture that supports gender equity and inclusion. Through cultural and educational resource library and events, advocacy, prevention initiatives, and leadership opportunities, the staff is committed to fostering an environment that is safe, supportive, and empowering for all community members. LGBTQ+ Resource Center: Established in 2004, The Kutztown University Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning + Resource Center’s mission is to create a welcoming and inclusive campus for individuals of all genders and sexualities. The Center provides LGBTQ+ resources and support, educational workshops, programs that empower and promote diversity, and a safe space that embraces individuality, authenticity, and equality. DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BELONGING

7 Military and Veterans Center: Established in 2014, the Kutztown University Office of Military Veterans Services provides a one-stopshop suite of services, events, and programs for veteran and military- affiliated students, faculty, and staff. The center exists to help students succeed in their educational and career goals. The center is a vital hub of centralized resources with a lounge area so students can relax between classes, computer workstations, and meeting spaces. Disability Services Office: The Disability Services Office (DSO) shines as a beacon of hope, inclusivity and empowerment, championing the rights and facilitating the success of students with disabilities. This commitment is woven into the very fabric of the university’s ethos, creating a nurturing environment where diversity is not just accepted, but celebrated. Frederick Douglass Institute: The Frederick Douglass Institute (FDI) is a collaborative effort of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to promote multiculturalism. The Institute derives its name from the example and legacy of Frederick Douglass. Douglass’ commitment to education and dedication to social equality serves as a model for the services and programming the Institute provides. The Frederick Douglass Institute at Kutztown University is an organization that encourages development of equality and diversity among faculty, staff, and students through scholarships, research, forums, exhibits, conferences, and visiting scholars. Our Institute encourages scholarship and facilitates the exchange of ideas around issues of cultural diversity and social equality among members of the campus community. We specifically promote activities such as discussions, forums, conferences, fellowship programs, and exhibits in order to increase awareness of multicultural issues and promote racial harmony. DEIB Governance: Three Presidential Commissions which report to the Administrative Council ensure the DEIB is sustained and supported in various ways on the campus. These include The Commission on the Human Diversity, The Commission on the Status of Minorities, and the Commission on the Status of Women. In addition, the Institutional Climate Committee (ICC) which reports to the senate, measures and advocates for a positive DEIB environment on campus. The Commissions and ICC have a mix of staff, faculty, and students serving on them appointed through the Committee on Committees. Kutztown University is home to four academic colleges, each containing several academic departments. KU also has a distinctive Honors Program that is open to qualified undergraduate students in all major fields designed to provide academic and leadership opportunities. College of Business Business students are creative and adventurous, and they interact regularly with professionals who share their expertise from the front lines of the marketplace. The well-rounded and challenging core curriculum, coupled with majors and minors that are in demand in today’s competitive environment, offers business students a dynamic window into the business world. Departments in the College of Business: • Business Administration • Sport Management ACADEMICS

8 College of Education Students considering careers in teaching, counseling, or educational leadership choose Kutztown University in part because of its long history of graduating exceptional education professionals. The College of Education offers a rigorous academic environment and an intensive teacher preparation program. Through partnerships with public schools and communities across the state and around the country, the faculty and students engage in scholarship and research activities across disciplines. KU is proud of the strong network of KU graduates in classrooms in every school district in Pennsylvania. Departments in the College: • Counselor Education and Student Affairs • Elementary, Middle Level, Library, and Technologies Education • Elementary Education • Library and Learning Technologies • Secondary Education • Special Education College of Liberal Arts and Sciences The College’s 13 academic departments offer dynamic programs that invite students to pursue their passions and use their curiosity to engage in learning experiences that propel our graduates into meaningful careers. In addition to coursework that helps students develop both broad foundational skills and in-depth disciplinary knowledge, students apply their learning through research opportunities, internships, and other hands-on experiences. Students do not just learn about the world; they also contribute to it. Departments in the College: • Anthropology and Sociology • Biological Sciences • Computer Science and Information Technology • Criminal Justice • English • Geography College of Visual and Performing Arts The College includes a rich community of practicing artists and scholars who are dedicated to helping students develop their creative voice through art and design, music, and communication. Long renowned for its ability to attract exceptionally talented students and faculty, the College also offers extraordinary facilities and frequent access to performances and exhibitions by celebrated artists and performers. KU’s proximity to New York, Philadelphia, and Washington provides an extended artistic environment to inspire students. Departments in the College: • Art and Design • Cinema, Television • Communication Studies • Art Education and Media Production • Music • History • Mathematics • Modern Language Studies • Philosophy and Government • Physical Sciences • Psychology • Social Work

9 Kutztown University is home to a community of scholars. Our professors bring world-class experiences to their classrooms and labs, and they are committed to helping students succeed. KU’s accomplished professors are leading experts and practitioners in their field; they share a strong commitment to teaching and a focus on engaging students in their studies. They blend theory with hands-on practice to help students get the most out of their courses, discussion groups and labs. KU faculty members make it a point to know their students personally. KU has 300 full-time faculty members. 90 percent of tenure and tenure-track faculty have their doctorate or terminal degree in their field. KU has a 18:1 student-faculty ratio. Kutztown University has both institutional and specialized accreditation. KU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Specialized accreditation includes: College of Business • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) • Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) • National Council for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE) College of Education • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation(CAEP) • Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) College of Liberal Arts and Sciences • American Chemical Society (ACS) (program approval) • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) College of Visual and Performing Arts • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) • National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) FACULTY ACCREDITATION

10 Kutztown University’s plan toward financial sustainability began with fiscal year 2018/19, when the university balanced the instructional and administrative budget, without the use of cash reserves, for the first time in eight years. KU has remained focused on this approach and continued this difficult work by balancing the budget without the use of cash reserves for the 7th consecutive year in 2024/25. This was accomplished on an annual basis through a combination of new revenue and base budget reductions. KU realized significant budget savings from position eliminations, faculty retirements, and reductions to department operating budgets and debt service obligations. Moving away from using cash reserves to balance the budget was a significant contributor towards this goal. These efforts have shown clear results in the form of improving financial indicators. KU’s unrestricted net assets and year-end cash balances now stand at $75 million and $87 million, which are the highest levels since June 30, 2017. Kutztown University has a consolidated operating budget of over $223 million. Main revenue sources include tuition, residence hall and dining fees, mandatory student fees, state support, and support from the Kutztown University Foundation. BUDGET Full All-In Budget (Fiscal Year 2023-2024) REVENUE Amount % of Total Tuition and Fees $ 78,586,362 35.15 Federal Operating Grants and Contracts 20,112,023 8.99 Sales and Services of Auxiliary Enterprises 40,734,023 18.22 State Appropriations 57,478,741 25.71 All Other Operating Grants and Contracts 17,515,162 7.83 Gifts, Investment Income, and Other 9,165,025 4.10 TOTAL REVENUE $223,591,336 EXPENDITURES Amount % of Total Instruction $ 55,322,955 27.31 Research 653,545 0.32 Public Services 12,877,323 6.36 Academic Support 8,882,496 4.38 Student Services 15,866,095 7.83 Institutional Support 19,701,290 9.72 Other Expenses 27,631,963 13.64 Scholarships 32,753,552 16.17 Auxiliary Services 28,917,113 14.27 TOTAL EXPENDITURES $202,606,332 100%

11 The Kutztown University Foundation has been raising funds to support the students, faculty, programs, and capital needs of Kutztown University since 1983. The foundation also oversees alumni engagement efforts, helping graduates stay connected to KU in meaningful ways. With the generous support of KU alumni, donors, and friends, the KU Foundation has raised millions of dollars for student scholarships, building projects, academic programs, athletics, and more. The KU Foundation recently completed the university’s first comprehensive campaign, Together, We’re Golden, which exceeded its goals six months early, raising nearly $47 million and doubling alumni engagement. Through the course of Together, We’re Golden, the foundation: • Created 163 new scholarships for students • Identified over 10,000 new donors • Worked with donors to bring their philanthropic visions to life on campus with projects like: - Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research - DeLight E. Breidegam Building: Headquarters of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center - Fred and Martha ’02 Hafer Scanning Electron Microscope Lab - Nancy Jean Stump Seiger ‘54 Botanical Research Center - C.R. Chambliss Astronomical Observatory - Beebe Family Conference Room in the newly renovated de Francesco building • Grew its endowment to $40,000,000* The KU Foundation is a private not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization and all gifts to the KU Foundation are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. *KU Foundation’s endowment is $45,405,000 as of 11/12/24. Kutztown University is a residential campus. First-time undergraduate students are required to live on campus for their first four semesters, and many students opt to live on campus for all four years in traditional, suitestyle, and apartment-style residence facilities. KU has special interest housing communities that connect academic learning with residence life including KUVA art, Social Justice, Board of Governors Scholars, Transfer Students, Honors Program, Neurodiverse Community, and more. The McFarland Student Union and the South Dining Hall KUTZTOWN UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION STUDENTS

12 are two areas that act as alternate living rooms and home away from home with many areas for interaction. The Student Recreation Center houses a rock-climbing wall, provides fitness programs/ equipment, racquetball courts, and gymnasiums. Getting involved is a key to success at KU. There are more than 200 organizations on campus, spanning the spectrum of interests including civic engagement, diversified focus, faith-based, Greek life, media and publications, special interest, and visual and performing arts. Musical entertainment, dances, lectures, comedy, excursions, and cultural events are planned throughout the year. The university offers a variety of student support services which will help students make the most of their time at KU. With numerous services to provide educational help and emotional, cultural, and physical support, students will be sure to reach their personal and professional aspirations. Kutztown University sits on 289 acres of picturesque land in Berks County, Pa. It abuts the Borough of Kutztown and lies primarily within Maxatawny Township. The campus itself is split by Kutztown Road into a predominantly academic focused north campus and a student life centered south campus. The built environment consists of 60+ buildings totaling approximately 2.5 million square feet. The square footage is equally split between academic, administrative, and auxiliary spaces (residence halls, dining facilities, and student life). The various academic buildings surround the Rohrbach Library in the center of the academic quad on north campus. The full-service library offers computer labs, study spaces, research services, and access to print and electronic materials. The academic buildings include the recently renovated de Francesco Building, home of our College of Business and the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center. The Academic Forum, a 65,000-square-foot facility that houses seven classrooms, ranging from 85 to 200 seats, is equipped with stateof-the-art audiovisual technology and a popular food court. The other academic buildings include exciting spaces such as art galleries, a botanical research center with a climate-controlled greenhouse, music performance facilities, a planetarium, a scanning electron microscope lab, a social media analytics strategic hub, TV production facilities, and a regenerative organic agriculture field lab. The auxiliary spaces include a dozen residence halls capable of housing nearly 4,000 students. These facilities range from recently renovated traditional halls up to apartment style suites, fully equipped with kitchens and air conditioning. The campus dining program is highlighted by two all-you-care-to-eat facilities on each side of campus: South Dining Hall and Cub Café. KU is also home to national brands such as Starbucks and Chick-fil-A. The remaining auxiliary spaces include McFarland Student Union Building, the Student Recreation Center, and the Health and Wellness Center which includes our Counseling Center. FACILITIES

13 Guided by goals of the Campus Facilities Master Plan, the university continues to address the need for new facilities and lifecycle renovations of major buildings to meet the needs and expectations of students, faculty and staff. During the last five years, major facilities achievements include: New and recently renovated facilities • Admissions Welcome Center (estimated completion in Spring 2025) – built as an addition to the “Poplar House,” it will be a place for the community and the university to meet, for first-time visitors to the university to become familiar with the campus, and for prospective students to explore the many ways a Kutztown University education can benefit them. • de Francesco Building – the building underwent a full lifecycle renovation. One goal of the project was to make de Francesco the home for the College of Business and to bring together all departments scattered across campus. • Keystone Field – the natural turf was replaced by artificial turf. Both women’s soccer and women’s lacrosse games are held here. The field is also available for recreational use. Other improvements included lighting, a sound system, bleachers and restroom facilities. • Nancy Jean Stump Seiger Botanical Research Center – built as a research facility for the biology department. It offers more opportunities for controlling many aspects of the environment to study the effects on plant material. • Wells-Rapp Center for Mallet Percussion Research – opened in Spring 2023 and is home to KU’s growing collection of music, photos, and artifacts, along with rare and valuable vintage collection of mallet percussion instruments. • Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center – is headquartered in the KU Foundation-owned Delight E. Breidegam Building. The faci- lity provides access to the heritage center library and archives, as well as thematic exhibitions in the galleries. It is also the gateway to an open-air folklife museum and research center dedicated to preserving and celebrating Pennsylvania German folk culture, history, and language. • Keith Haring Fitness Court – is located at the juncture of the university and the Borough of Kutztown. It was a joint project of the university and the Borough. The outdoor court features many exercise stations to provide any workout intensity. The College of Business’ Sport Management department makes use of the court for coursework. Upcoming Projects • Johnson Hall – this residence hall will undergo a full lifecycle renovation. The design is complete, and construction bids are due in December 2024. • Keystone Hall – this athletic building will undergo a full lifecycle renovation. Design is in progress. It will address code and accessibility deficiencies. Improvements in locker facilities, the natatorium, game day management, and coaches’ and officials’ accommodations.

14 KU varsity athletic teams compete mostly in NCAA Division II and in the Pennsylvania State Athletics Conference (PSAC). KU has nine men’s sports: baseball, basketball, cross country, football, swimming, tennis, indoor/outdoor track and field, wrestling; and 14 women’s sports: acrobatics and tumbling, basketball, bowling, cross country, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, indoor/outdoor track and field, volleyball. Kutztown University’s athletic program has enjoyed unprecedented national and regional success in recent years. In 2023, the Golden Bear field hockey team captured the university’s first-ever NCAA national championship. The KU football team won the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship (PSAC), the NCAA Super Region I Championship and advanced to the semifinals in NCAA Division II. Golden Bear women’s soccer, softball and women’s lacrosse all advanced to the NCAA playoffs during the 2023-24 academic year. Many KU student-athletes were honored at a national level for their performance, as well as their success in the classrooms. In 2024, the Golden Bear football team went undefeated (11-0), winning the first back-to-back PSAC title in university history. The team earned the top seed in NCAA Super Regional I for the postseason. KU field hockey finished as the national runner-up and women’s soccer earned an NCAA playoff berths for the second consecutive year. These recent accomplishments enhance a 130-year-old legacy of athletic success that supports university enrollment, enhances student life, and garners publicity and support for the Kutztown University camps. Athletic facilities include a swimming pool, stadium, multipurpose field, fieldhouse, weight room, playing fields, tennis and basketball courts, indoor/outdoor track, and a cross-country course. KU also offers a comprehensive club sports program, including men’s and women’s rugby at the elite club level. Golden Bear men’s rugby has been among the top Division I rugby programs in the nation for decades. Kutztown University Athletics Vision: To instill love, passion and pride of the university in all student-athletes. To compete at the highest level in all sports ultimately achieving to be the best in the PSAC and within our region. Aspiring to be a regional center of excellence providing opportunities for advanced academic and athletic experiences, within a caring community, designed to promote success in a global society. Kutztown University Athletics Mission: To promote student-athlete development through education and athletic competition; to stimulate values so participants can become active global citizens; to achieve excellence in which the university and community take pride; and to prepare students to meet lifelong intellectual, ethical, social, and career challenges. ATHLETICS

15 Kutztown is a quaint borough with an overall area of roughly 1.6 square miles. The campus is in a beautiful rural Pennsylvania Dutch community. Kutztown, PA, is a town of 4,162 (2020 census) residents who experience the beauty and rustic elegance that is seen here daily. The borough provides students and visitors alike with many unique events, such as annual festivals. Kutztown is also home to many hiking trails, stores, shops, and so much more. Kutztown is located conveniently between Reading and Allentown, less than 20 miles from both cities. It is 70 miles from Philadelphia and Harrisburg, 100 miles from New York City, 120 miles from Baltimore, and 160 miles from Washington, D.C. Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is 25 minutes from campus. One of the most often asked questions is “how do you pronounce Kutztown?” While there are many mispronounced versions, the accurate way to say Kutztown: the first syllable “KUTZ” rhymes with “PUTS” or if the plural of foot was “FOOTS.” KUTZTOWN, PA

16 Kutztown University has a long history of a strong student-focused culture, a community of active teachers and scholars, and a record of commitment to its community and region. The university faces both challenges and opportunities as it seeks to sustain and further strengthen programs and services for its students and the wider community. Areas of particular focus for the next president include: Enrollment Growth: Consistent with many other campuses, KU is in a region that is undergoing population declines within the traditional-age cohort, while competition for students has grown. KU will need to bolster admission and retention strategies to include new program development and more aggressive recruiting in both regional and expanded markets. The next president will spur strategic growth in existing programs and new program development that meets employer and prospective student demand and integrates the arts, liberal arts, and professional programs, including an expansion of graduate curriculum. Financial Sustainability: The new president will need to be both financially adept and a strong advocate for the university, finding ways to maintain and improve support for programs through strong legislative advocacy, energetic fundraising with alumni and other donors, the development of other resources through community and economic development, greater internal efficiencies and creative marshaling of campus finances. In partnership with the Kutztown University Foundation, the new president will have the opportunity to build upon the successful recent track record of fundraising and advancement and plan for the next campaign. PRESIDENT: The president is the chief executive officer of the university and reports through the PASSHE chancellor to the Board of Governors. With a proven record of excellent academic leadership, the next president must be a transparent, forward thinking, articulate, and inspiring communicator who will be asked to lead the collaborative effort with the university community to develop a strong shared vision for the next stage of development for Kutztown University. Skilled in external relations, the president will understand KU’s role in the region and will be deeply engaged with the community. Additionally, the president should be adept at navigating the political landscape to advocate for the institution’s needs and collaborate effectively within the PASSHE system. The ideal candidate will be student-focused and have a proven ability to build trust, increase enrollment, build strong partnerships, and actively fundraise. THE ROLE OF THE OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES

17 Academic Excellence: KU has gained a reputation for strong academic programs and faculty commitment to teaching and mentorship. Every effort must be made to ensure that academic quality remains the focal point in all aspects of the university. Increased enrollment, retention, and broader recognition can only be accomplished if the academic culture and student focus remain at the center of the university’s commitment. The president must support and recognize faculty and staff and articulate a vision that can unite the campus, communicate the university’s values, and effectively advocate for the resources and staffing necessary to sustain the energetic momentum and to maintain excellence. A key to future success will be the importance of appreciating research within a teacher scholar environment. Communication: The university’s relative size and diversity of programs have always been strengths, both internally and externally. In addressing new issues as well as old, it is important for the president to be an active listener and continue to play an engaged and transparent role with the faculty, staff, and students within the university, and to engage the campus community – empowering all levels of the university in order to understand and address institutional goals. The president will need to successfully represent the entire university effectively within the local community and beyond, while working cooperatively with faculty, staff, students, and administrators. Student Success: KU is committed to transforming students’ lives through education and provides a robust living and learning environment that celebrates curiosity, inspires independence, and praises perseverance. The university is committed to meeting its students where they are to fully support their educational needs and future goals. The president should be familiar with proven, evidence-based practices in the areas of teaching and learning, and work with the entire university community to continue to break down barriers to success for its students. Diversity and Inclusion: Representation matters, and the challenge of attracting and retaining diverse faculty/staff in our geographic location and with limited growth opportunities for staff will be a challenge for the new president. Kutztown University is committed to building diverse student populations, including students of color and international students, and this is an area for growth. Achieving the increased levels of diversity within the staff, faculty, administration, and student body requires the leadership and commitment of the president. Community Engagement: As the leader of a public regional comprehensive university, the president must be a person who is broadly known within the community and region. While Kutztown University has developed strong ties to the local community and KU students are engaged in volunteer work, off-campus activities, and internships, it will be important for the next president

18 to continue to seek mutually beneficial partnerships as it continues to contribute to the economic vitality of the region and provides an educated workforce to the region, the state, and beyond. Presidential Engagement with Students: As fitting the mission of KU, the next president will be expected to be a visible and actively engaged presence on campus. The next president will effectively and intentionally interact with students to increase opportunities; connectedness to the institution; strengthen campus climate; and contribute to academic success. The next president of Kutztown University must be a visionary leader who will embrace the character, values, and traditions of the KU community and carry them forward in new and exciting ways. The ideal candidate for the Presidency of Kutztown University will have a terminal degree and should demonstrate many of the following qualifications, experiences, and qualities: • Executive leadership in a challenging and evolving higher education environment • Demonstrated success at partnering and working collaboratively with faculty and administrators on strategic and evidence-informed decisions regarding academic programs • Proven record of supporting innovation and academic program growth • Retaining and supporting the advancement of faculty, staff and students • Evidence of successful, progressive administrative experience, including management of personnel resources, budget management, and program assessment and accreditation • The ability to shape and communicate a collaborative institutional vision in ways that are compelling to internal and external stakeholders of the institution • Respect for the teaching and learning environment and the ability to advance excellence in teaching, scholarship, research, and service • An appreciation for the centrality of student success and the whole student experience DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Strong budgeting and financial acumen and the ability to use data to drive decisions • Record of developing meaningful partnerships within local and regional community • Appreciation and respect for the important role of unions and the ability to develop a positive and collaborative working relationship with their representatives • Capacity to serve as passionate advocate of mission, people, and programs • Proven record in fundraising, advancement activities, alumni relations, and a capacity for cultivating a broad range of institutional supporters • Appreciation for and the desire and ability to support the powerful and important role that athletics play in building and strengthening the culture and identity of Kutztown University • The ability to build and empower a strong leadership team, to delegate effectively, to foster collaboration and shared purpose, and to make fair, sometimes difficult and timely decisions • An open, transparent, and positive communication and leadership style • Ability to successfully foster innovation that generates new revenue sources • A demonstrated commitment to strengthening diversity and championing access within the culture of an institution or organization • Experience and capacity to work effectively with governing and advisory boards, system leadership, state legislators, fellow system presidents, union representatives, and other stakeholders of a dynamic public institution • Candidate should have demonstrated experience working with diverse communities including but not limited to, experience working with college, young, and adult-age populations, individuals of various racial/ethnic, religious backgrounds, abilities, and members of LGBTQ+ communities. • Demonstrated experience in successfully managing difficult and crisis situations. With respect to personal qualities, the ideal candidate will possess the following: • Integrity • Visionary and imaginative leadership • Enthusiasm, persistence, and high energy • Entrepreneurial drive • Appreciation for principles of shared governance • Willingness to listen, value, and consider differing views • Commitment to academic freedom and the full exchange of ideas • Passion for learning about and caring for students, staff, and faculty • A commitment to KU’s mission and values • Embraces the positive impact of diverse ideas and the importance of inclusive community discourse • Enjoyment of interaction with diverse members of the university community, including students, staff, faculty, alumni, families, and friends 19

This is a full-time position that will be performed on site in Pennsylvania. Starting salary is $345,000, though may be higher commensurate with experience. The position also comes with a generous benefits package, a presidential home with both private and public areas, a travel budget, and a vehicle stipend. Expressions of interest and nominations are being accepted and will continue until the position is filled. All nominations and applications shall be confidential. Application materials should include a letter of interest, a resume/CV, and the names and contact information for five professional references. Interested candidates can apply using the following Talent Profile link: https://talent-profile. dsgco.com/search/v2/21624 Steve Leo, Managing Director Susan VanGilder, Global Managing Partner and Practice Leader, Education Kamilah Allen, Senior Associate Storbeck Search KutztownPresident@storbecksearch.com The university is very interested in hiring employees who have had extensive experience with diverse populations. Kutztown University is an AA/EOE/member of the PA State System of Higher Education and actively solicits applications from women and minority candidates. Non-Discrimination Statement Kutztown University does not discriminate in employment or educational opportunities on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. To discuss a complaint of discrimination, please contact the Office of Social Equity, Old Main A-Wing, Room 02, by phone at 610-683-4700 or by e-mail at pena@kutztown. edu. Pursuant to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Kutztown University does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, including admissions and employment. Any inquiries regarding the application of Title IX, contact the university’s Title IX coordinator in Old Main A-Wing, Room 02A, by phone at 610-683-4782 or by email at titleix@kutztown.edu. You may also contact the Office for Civil Rights located in the Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Bldg, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-1100, by phone at 800-421-3481 (TDD: 800-877-8339), by fax at 202-453-6012, or by e-mail at OCR@ ed.gov. Kutztown University’s sexual misconduct, anti-discrimination, and antiharassment policies can be found in The Key student handbook or online at www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrativew-offices/social-equity.html. 20 COMPENSATION REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS

A member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education

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