1. Home
Students are seen sitting beneath the new pavilion, which is a white, artistic structure.

Pavilion honors late chancellor, provides new space on campus

A dedication ceremony for the new Dr. Donna J. Kuga Pavilion is planned for Oct. 23. The pavilion has been built in honor of the late Kuga who dedicated 40 years of her life to the Penn State Beaver campus.
Oct. 23 dedication planned for new gathering space

MONACA — Say the name Donna Kuga to anyone who has been affiliated with Penn State Beaver over the years, and you’re likely to see that person break into a fond smile.

Kuga, who died in 2017 after a long illness, is remembered as a beloved supporter of Penn State Beaver who dedicated so much of her life to the campus from her time as a student to her appointment as interim chancellor. During her 40 years on campus she was also a professor, coach, athletic director and longtime director of academic affairs.

In recognition of her distinguished career, Penn State Beaver is honoring her legacy and ensuring future generations are aware of her contributions to campus with the Dr. Donna J. Kuga Pavilion. 

The pavilion, located outside of the Laboratory Classroom Building, will serve as a gathering space for students, alumni and guests. 

“This beautiful marriage of form and function is a fitting tribute to the life and work of Donna Kuga, who was so very devoted to the cultivation of the whole person, including the many scholar athletes served by Penn State Beaver,” Chancellor Jenifer Cushman said.

Kuga’s sister, Ms. Linda Kuga Pikulin, has made a donation to the cost of the pavilion.

There will be a dedication ceremony at 12:15 p.m. Oct. 23. The ceremony will take place over Zoom, but students, faculty or staff who are on campus may attend in person. 

Those who would like to join over Zoom can use this link: https://psu.zoom.us/j/97927315070?pwd=MTBzdFU3dTkzYXFUYkR6aTVSSlFDQT09. Anyone attending in person is asked to follow all guidelines regarding social distancing and mask wearing.