President Getz wins AICUP Comm Award for insightful editorial on education reform

In recognition of her outstanding efforts to communicate the value of higher education, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania has awarded AICUP’s 2025 Comm Award to Mercyhurst University President Kathleen A. Getz, Ph.D.

Getz earned the “Distinguished Communicator” prize in the category of Best Opinion for an editorial she wrote for the Erie Times News/GoErie.com titled “Pennsylvania’s Private Universities empower outcomes, student choice,” which appeared Sunday, March 14, 2024.

In her timely and compelling piece, Getz commended Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's plan to overhaul the state’s higher education system, praising his goals to improve public universities and make education more accessible and affordable. However, she noted that the plan “falls short of properly valuing and supporting the critical role that private higher education plays in the commonwealth's success, nor does it honor the wisdom of Pennsylvania's students in choosing the education that best fits them.”

Upon learning of her award, Getz said, “I am grateful to AICUP for this honor, although it is not just a personal recognition, but a testament to the value of private higher education in Pennsylvania. We must continue to champion the rights of students to choose the educational path that best aligns with their goals and aspirations.”