2 1
APSCUF-KU Newsletter
Fall 2017
Kutztown University Chapter Association of Pennsylvania State
A Message from State APSCUF President, Ken Mash Dear Colleagues, On Aug. 7, the Philadelphia Inquirer published an editorial titled “Cheyney problem isn’t racism; it’s failing to compete for students.” The major thesis of that piece was that Cheyney’s problems were rooted in its failure to attract students from diverse backgrounds. False. Cheyney’s problems are rooted in racism, pure and simple. I wrote an op-ed for the Inquirer, but they never printed it. Of course. Cheyney’s fundamental problem is that it has been managed into the ground. Things have occurred at that university that would never had been accepted at any of the other 13 institutions. It should be a point of pride for all of us that Cheyney is part of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. The institution’s rich and important history should be understood by all. More important, its current mission to provide opportunities for students who may not otherwise go to college is as important today as it has ever been. It is not enough to simply say that there are opportunities today at other universities that were not available in the past to students of color. The vestiges of past legalized forms of segregation and the existing racism of the day are enough on their own to justify the university’s existence. Mix in issues of class and an educational system that does not adequately prepare some for college, and you have every justification for Cheyney’s existence. And the sheer numbers of Pennsylvania students who do not attend college make Cheyney’s current situation difficult to understand. It was clear to me soon after I became involved at the state level that there were those in the highest levels of government and the State System who viewed Cheyney not as a point of pride, but rather one of derision. The reports and rumors
KU Proud
Student Perspective
Accomplishments of KU students, faculty, and staff. P. 3
Legislative Day and Lytle Hall, Where Did the Money Go?, by Mary Gittens P. 8-11
Meet The Delegates KU-APSCUF delegates and their dedication. P.14