With Lehigh recently being named an R1 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education and with university research at the forefront of national conversation, this issue of the Alumni Bulletin brings into focus the groundbreaking research of our students, faculty and alumni.
From cutting-edge technology to medical breakthroughs, the research-related innovations, studies and advancements made right here on our campus have benefitted nearly every corner of the world and have helped students become innovators who transform the Lehigh Valley, the state and the world.
One such student you will read about is Saimonth Muñoz ’26, who earned a prestigious Goldwater Scholarship in 2025 and conducts research under Lehigh faculty in quantum materials and machine learning, two emerging areas in science and technology. His future goals include publishing a research paper, earning a Ph.D. in quantum computing and continuing work that has societal impact.
You will also learn about faculty researchers and students working to address the energy needs of artificial intelligence data centers within Lehigh’s Center for Advancing Community Electrification Solutions, one of our newest University Research Centers. And you will read about geoscientists Andrew Knoll ’73 and Daniel Richter ’73, whose respective research into rocks and soil has contributed to our understanding of the history of life on Earth and how that impacts us today.
These are just a few of the remarkable students, faculty and alumni solving complex problems and driving lasting change in our community and beyond.
Additionally, you will gain insight into Lehigh’s positive comprehensive impact of $1.4 billion on the Lehigh Valley as detailed in the university’s Community and Economic Impact Report for the 2023-24 fiscal year. And you will hear from students and alumni influenced by the arts at Lehigh and explore the fascinating history of Lehigh University Art Galleries (LUAG), which is preparing to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
We hope these stories inspire you as much as they have inspired us, and we thank you for reading.
Lauren Thein
Editor
