There’s that phrase again—“the Lehigh community.” It’s how we in Development and Alumni Relations often start letters and video messages. It’s the language we use in presentations and appeals. It’s convenient and inclusive, addressing everyone with ties to South Mountain, including alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students and friends of the university.
What this phrase is not is empty. My recent trip to California drove that home for me. For a week in January, I found myself on a whirlwind West Coast tour that included LehighSiliconValley, an immersive entrepreneurship experience for students through the Baker Institute. Throughout my travels, the power of the Lehigh community was on full display, demonstrating what it means when we talk about being part of a group that shares a transformational educational experience and how those connections endure across time and distance.
What did I see? At LehighSiliconValley, deeply committed alumni stepped up to share their expertise with students, providing inspiration and mentorship. A new “Kitchen Cabinet” of advisors gathered to offer their wealth of knowledge to advance entrepreneurship endeavors at Lehigh. Alumni networked with students and each other.
Beyond Silicon Valley, Paolo Bocchini, director of the Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience, took time away from a conference to talk with alumni about the research his team is doing. And at the same time, California was experiencing unprecedented wildfires.
I was heartened by the care I saw as alumni reached out to each other, to check in and offer support in the face of disaster—the same kind of disasters Paolo Bocchini and other Lehigh researchers are working to better understand and mitigate.
So when I say “the Lehigh community,” I mean all of this. Researchers solving problems that impact people in real ways. High-level professionals sharing expertise and advancing Lehigh programs. Colleagues supporting each other professionally. Alumni committed to mentoring and inspiring students. Friends helping friends in times of incredible need.
Wherever you find yourself, you are a member of this dynamic and multifaceted network. I am so grateful to be part of the effort to help you connect and make the most of all Lehigh has to offer. If you’re not involved yet, there are still Lehigh experiences to be had, new friends to connect with and great contributions to be made, at a time when the university’s seeing incredible momentum. I hope to see you soon.
With Gratitude,
Carol Packard
Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations
