Robert Grim Awarded With Kutztown University President’s Medal

Kutztown University, June 24, 2025

Robert Grim, Esq., was presented with the Kutztown University President’s Medal on Tuesday, June 24, for his commitment to service to Kutztown University and the local community.

A lifelong resident of Kutztown, Grim has practiced law locally since 1969, following his graduation from Lafayette College and Villanova Law School. His legal career commenced as an assistant public defender in Berks County, and he has since served as a municipal solicitor in the area for over four decades.

Grim’s commitment to Kutztown University is both personal and profound. He grew up at 15195 Kutztown Road, formerly known as Maple Manor, which houses the KU Foundation’s Business Office. This residence, recently renamed The Grim Family Homestead, stands as a testament to the family’s longstanding relationship with the university.

The Grim family’s legacy at Kutztown dates back to the 1880s. His great-grandfather, Dr. George Washington Grim, had nine children, all of whom attended the Keystone State Normal School (now Kutztown University). Among them, James S. Grim, Robert’s grandfather, graduated in 1893 and dedicated 43 years to teaching at the institution. His contributions to education and groundbreaking botanical research led to the naming of the Grim Science Building in his honor.

Continuing this tradition of service, Grim co-founded the Kutztown University Foundation, where he also served as director and treasurer. His efforts have been pivotal in advancing the university’s fundraising and development initiatives. He has helped establish two scholarships at the university: the Ruth S. Grim Leestma 1932 and the 1934 Memorial Endowed Scholarship for Elementary School Teachers, and the Honorable Allan K. Grim 1921 Memorial Endowed Scholarship.

He has also served on the Council of Trustees, holding the positions of vice chairperson (2020-22) and chairperson (2022-24), providing strategic guidance during pivotal periods. During his time as chair and beyond, Grim has been an advocate for green efforts for the university and Kutztown community, pursuing solar energy while preserving the local environmental footprint.

Beyond his roles at the university, Grim has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to community service. He has held leadership positions with the Berks County Bar Association, the Berks County March of Dimes, the Kutztown Business Association, and the Kutztown Area Historical Society. Additionally, he co-founded and presided over the Kutztown Area School District Educational Foundation, emphasizing his dedication to education at all levels.

Grim’s contributions have been recognized with the Kutztown Outstanding Community Citizen Award, reflecting his impact and service. His family’s legacy, marked by generations of educators and public servants, underscores a deep-seated commitment to the betterment of society through education and civic engagement.

The President’s Medal was created in 2014 by the president’s office to be awarded to individuals who bring honor and distinction to our institution and who serve as examples to our students and our alumni. Other recipients include William Ribble ’73, long-time member of the KU Foundation Board; Andre Reed ’05, KU and Pro Football Hall of Famer; Ryan Vogelsong, Major League Baseball All-Star and two-time World Series Champion; Gregory “Doc” Jones, long-time head coach of the KU men’s rugby team; Dr. Carlson Chambliss, long serving KU professor, philanthropist and scholar; Sandy Green, former mayor of Kutztown and community leader and advocate; Bessie Reese Crenshaw ’50, Kutztown University’s first African American graduate; John Mobley, two-time Super Bowl champion; Robert C. Landis and Scott A. Dorn ’79, KU Foundation Board presidents; Bonita B. Perkins ’68 and Charles O. Perkins ’68, philanthropic leaders and supporters; and Jason Graver ’92, M’18, volunteer university historian.

Learn more about the Kutztown University President's Medal here.