April Newsletter
13 Years Strong: Evolving, Expanding, and Still Making an Impact
Thirteen years ago this month, we completed a research and education network that connected institutions, people, and ideas in ways that were groundbreaking at the time. Today, the vision and impact of that network continue to shape our work. What began as a bold effort to link communities and resources now lives on in new forms—expanding digital access, creating opportunity, and empowering the next generation of leaders in STEM. While we may not look exactly as we did then, the spirit of that mission—connecting, supporting, and empowering—remains at the heart of everything we do.
Our work has evolved, and today we stand at the intersection of a robust research and education network, digital access and opportunity work, and efforts advancing women and underrepresented voices in STEM. The landscape around us is changing fast—AI is reshaping how institutions teach, research, and compete for talent—and we are recommitting to the founding purpose that has always guided us: connecting Pennsylvania's institutions, people, and ideas in ways that open new possibilities.
That commitment positions us to lead across the region. As the demands on research and education networks grow more sophisticated, we are expanding both our capabilities and the community of institutions we serve—deepening support for AI, advanced computing, and next-generation network services, while extending access to campuses that have historically been under-resourced. The foundation built over the past thirteen years gives us the confidence and credibility to meet this moment and shape what comes next.
KeystoneREN recently announced exciting news that reflects this momentum. The National Science Foundation has awarded a $1.3M CC* Network-Region grant—Expanding the Pennsylvania Science DMZ Supporting Under-Resourced Colleges and Universities (PA-Science-DMZ-2024)—led by Penn State University, to extend the PA Science DMZ to three additional campuses: Allegheny College, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, and West Chester University. The award directly builds on the planning work done by KINBER and the initial Pennsylvania Science DMZ, a high-speed network “fast lane” that enables Pennsylvania researchers to move and share large scientific datasets quickly and securely, led by Penn State University, KINBER, and KeystoneREN. This award continues to address the critical gaps in access to regional and national AI, high-performance computing, and storage resources for these institutions. It is a powerful example of how our network can uplift under-resourced campuses and broaden the reach of advanced research infrastructure across Pennsylvania.
At the same time, KINBER’s mission-driven programs continue to transform lives. The STEM-UP Network is preparing the next generation of women leaders in STEM. Our digital access and support hubs are driving meaningful workforce and economic development in communities across Pennsylvania. The NextGen Navigators program is introducing high school students to tech career pathways while building digital literacy, troubleshooting, and coaching skills. And through our collaboration with MOR, we are investing in the next generation of leaders within our own field. Together, these programs ensure that our impact grows deeper and broader every year.
As we reflect on our history and look ahead, one thing is clear: the foundation built 13 years ago gives us the freedom, flexibility, and resources to dream bigger than ever. We believe our organization can serve as an exemplar for other nonprofits across the country—proof that when mission, network, and community come together, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.
Here's to honoring the past, embracing the present, and building a future full of opportunity.
Warm regards,
- Nathan Flood
President & CEO, KINBER
Celebrating Our KINBER MOR Leaders Class of 2026
This past week, our KINBER MOR Leaders Class of 2026 came together to celebrate their capstone ceremony, a milestone marking months of growth, collaboration, and leadership in action.
We’re incredibly proud of this newest group of leaders and the way they leaned into the experience, supported one another, and embraced new challenges.
Here’s what a few of them had to say about their journey:
"If you think you can learn it yourself just by reading a few leadership books, you're missing out. A key element of the MOR program is the relationships you build with your cohort, who provide a supportive space to reflect on your leadership journey and build confidence in using the skills you learn along the way." - Lauren S.
"MOR empowered me to transition from a departmental silo to a strategic mindset, providing the tools to lead in ways that drive the institution’s broader mission." - Jason B.
"MOR constantly puts you out of your comfort zone and forces you to approach from different perspectives. It gives you opportunities to improve yourself in scenarios that are difficult to practice on your own." - Kris S.
If you’re inspired by their experience, our next cohort is now forming.
👉 Register here: www.KINBER.org/MOR
