KASDEF Celebrates 25 Years of Giving

Saturday evening, October 18, 2025, supporters of the Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation gathered to celebrate its 25th anniversary at C.J. Hummels Restaurant in Lenhartsville.

While attendees socialized, The Reid Justeson Quartet, comprised of high school students, provided beautiful background music. Participants took their time perusing 18 raffle baskets, enjoying a variety of delicious food, and learning about the history of the organization.

As Lynn Silan, who has been an integral part of making KASDEF what it is today, said, “The KASD Ed Foundation continues to successfully fulfill its mission: to enhance educational opportunities throughout the district. Having served on the board of directors in the past, I feel very proud to have been a part of the effort."

Twenty-five years ago, Dr. Brenda Winkler, while Superintendent of the Kutztown Area School District, reached out to two friends, Attorney Robert Grim and the late DeLight Breidegam, Jr., Chairman of East Penn Manufacturing. Together, the three founded the Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation to raise money for scholarships and improve educational opportunities. The Foundation’s efforts have grown over the years to provide 43 annual scholarships totaling approximately $80,000. In addition, the Foundation recognizes KASD graduates through several programs, improves education beyond the classroom curriculum, and supports teachers and students. 

Greg and Sarah Kuhn, District parents, enjoyed the evening, saying "Celebrating the Kutztown Area School District Education Foundation’s 25th anniversary was a wonderful experience! The evening not only celebrated their past accomplishments but also highlighted…new initiatives such as the Stage the Future and Cougar Courtyard campaigns. It’s clear that the foundation’s dedication is making a lasting difference for students and families in this little community we call home." 

Attendees included current district students as well as original board members, people born and raised within the district, and people who have chosen it as their home. Everyone enjoyed coming together to celebrate 25 years of caring about students, families, and the community. As Ben Hoffman, a KAHS visual arts teacher, noted, “Meeting folks who carry such a deep passion and a genuine desire to give back to Kutztown is one of the many reminders of how truly special our community is.”