Kutztown University announced its 12th President, introducing Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson to the KU and Kutztown Borough community Tuesday afternoon.
The Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education on March 17 unanimously selected Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson to be the next president of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, effective July 1.
“I am terribly humbled by being given this honor. To be appointed the next President of Kutztown University is the culmination of my entire career to reach this stage. I’m looking forward to getting to work,” Hawkinson told The Patriot during a press conference.
Over the next couple of months, Hawkinson said he will work with KU leadership and become familiar with the ins and outs of the University.
“I hope to bring the values that I have developed through the many experiences I’ve had through the course of my life. Also to bring the knowledge that I’ve gained as an administrator at all the different levels of the University.”
He hopes the combination of his life experiences, such as serving in the military and serving as a Peace Corp. volunteer, and his years in higher education have prepared him well for this opportunity.
Kutztown University Council of Trustees Chair John “Jack” Wabby, who chaired the presidential search committee, commended the search committee and the search firm for presenting high caliber candidates, nationwide. The 11 month process narrowed down candidates to five they felt fit the KU environment.
“Ken seemed to be an administrator who knew exactly what we had in mind. He was a perfect fit for Kutztown,” said Wabby. “Educationa wise, administratively wise, we’re very proud to have Ken.”
Dr. Hawkinson is provost of Western Illinois University, a position he has held since January 2012. He was hired there in 1988 as an assistant professor in the Department of Communication. He also is a former military officer, having served in the U.S. Army as both an Infantry officer and a public affairs officer.
Hawkinson was introduced during a meet and greet event on March 17. Read more next issue.
