KU signs research agreement with Rodale
Kutztown University and the Rodale Institute, Maxatawny Township, signed a cooperative agreement on Monday, Feb. 27, that will establish research affiliates for the mutual benefit of both institutions. The agreement will create opportunities for students to partner with university faculty and Rodale Institute personnel on field research in the areas of soil health, organic practices for farming and pest management, composting and pollinators. Students will also be able to intern at the Rodale Institute.
Rodale Institute personnel will now be able to perform collaborative research with Kutztown University faculty and students; have access to university research laboratories; the opportunity for its research affiliates to offer guest lectures, when invited by Kutztown University faculty; access to Rohrbach Library; parking on the Kutztown University campus; and a Kutztown University ID card, identifying the status as research affiliate.
“It’s a unique agreement,” said Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson, president, Kutztown University. “We hope this will bring about cooperation and understanding among people, especially when it comes to issues like the environment and sustainability.”
“This is a golden opportunity for a world-class organization like the Rodale Institute to reachout to a world class university,” said Jeff Moyer, executive director, Rodale Institute. “This will allow us to share information, share knowledge and most importantly bring value to the students that attend Kutztown University.”
The Rodale Institute was founded in 1947 by organic pioneer J.I. Rodale to study the link between healthy soil, healthy food, and healthy people and developing and demonstrating practical methods of rebuilding natural soil fertility. The Institute can be found on a 333-acre farm with research facilities located less than six miles from Kutztown University.