Keystone Chapter-Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers

The Keystone Chapter-Association of Higher Education Facilities Officers is a nonprofit organization operating in the state of Pennsylvania. It is specifically focused on serving educational facilities professionals across various educational institutions, including K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities.

Purpose and Mission

The organization is dedicated to providing education and networking opportunities to its members, who are facilities professionals in higher education. It aims to foster professionalism, promote common interests in facility management, and facilitate interactions with business partners and external agencies. These goals are achieved through various educational seminars and programs tailored to meet the needs of facilities managers, with topics chosen by the membership itself[1][2][3].

Services and Activities

• Educational Programs: The organization offers educational seminars and programs at semiannual meetings. These meetings cover timely topics relevant to facilities management and are designed to provide valuable insights and updates on current issues in the field[2].
• Networking Opportunities: The meetings also serve as platforms for members to network and exchange ideas, which proves invaluable in solving common challenges faced by facilities professionals[2].
• Professional Development: Members have the opportunity to participate in educational sessions, either as presenters or attendees. Additionally, leadership roles within the organization offer further avenues for professional growth through officer positions or committee memberships[2].
• Regulatory Advisement: A regulatory advisement committee monitors and reports on Pennsylvania legislation related to facilities management, keeping members informed and up-to-date on relevant legal developments[2].

Governance

The Keystone Chapter is governed solely by its membership, ensuring that the organization's priorities and initiatives align closely with the needs of its constituents. As a chapter of the Association of Physical Plant Administrators (APPA), it maintains close ties with both national and regional APPA organizations, reflecting its commitment to broader collaboration and resource sharing within the field[2].

Membership

Membership is comprised of private and public educational institutions across Pennsylvania, providing a broad network of professionals from K-12 schools to universities[1]. Business partners and suppliers also participate, offering goods and services relevant to facilities management. This diverse membership base enriches the educational and networking opportunities available through the organization[1].

History

The Keystone Chapter was founded in 1991 to serve educational institutions in Pennsylvania, positioning itself as a leading provider of educational opportunities for higher education facilities officers[2]. Over the years, it has continued to evolve by offering timely educational programs that help members address the professional demands of their roles.