Priorities

What are the campaign’s top priorities?

Schaeffer Auditorium, Sharadin Arts Building, the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center, student scholarships, and both unrestricted and restricted annual funds. 

The Schaeffer Auditorium and Sharadin Arts Building are priorities of the campaign so that we can enhance the outstanding programs in the College of Visual and Performing Arts.  New facilities are a top priority because they provide the necessary space required by a renowned visual and performing arts program.   

The Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center is dedicated to the preservation of Pennsylvania German history, folklore, and traditions, and plays an important role in the university’s educational and cultural programs.

Scholarships are top priorities and an ongoing priority for Kutztown University.  Approximately 75% of students receive financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, or student employment.  Additionally, the financial aid package offered by Kutztown University averages $7,700, substantially lower than the $10,000 average award of the other state system schools.  Over 85% of KU students graduate with debt and the average debt exceeds $20,000.  Accessibility to a KU quality education is a high priority the campaign addresses.

What are the campaign’s additional priorities?

The campaign will secure resources to enhance all academic and extracurricular areas of the university that positively impact the quality of the education offered at Kutztown University.

How were the campaign’s goals and priorities determined?

The construction projects, Schaeffer Auditorium and Sharadin Arts Building, were determined by the university’s need to enhance the Visual and Performing Arts academic programs. 

Scholarships are an ongoing need as are gifts that enhance the overall quality of education at KU. Unrestricted gifts provide critical support to areas that further advance the mission of KU, and finally, designated gifts that enhance the quality of the university not falling into one of the previously mentioned areas will allow donors to participate. The campaign is a comprehensive campaign and all gift designations count towards the campaign goal, helping to promote a culture of philanthropy.

How do I know if my gift counts?

If the gift was an outright gift made during the timeframe of the campaign or a current pledge, then it counts for the campaign. If the gift is a planned gift, e.g., a trust or designating Kutztown University Foundation in your will, the donor must be age 70 or older.

Support Kutztown University by making your gift to the campaign!