For 146 years, Lehigh has honored the legacy of its founder, Asa Packer, with a campus celebration of the university’s past, present and exciting future.
Founder’s Weekend, held Oct. 16–18 on campus, invited the Lehigh community to celebrate with food, fun and festivities, including the Clayton University Center at Packer Hall dedication. The dedication honored all donors who supported the renovation of the iconic building, including Kevin L. Clayton ’84 P’13 and Lisa A. Clayton P’13, and also featured the placement of a time capsule, which is slated to be opened in 2075.
During the time capsule placement, Lucas Koranda ’26, an Integrated Business and Engineering major, shared the following reflection of his gratitude for the building and the donors who made its renovation possible, and what this milestone means to the Lehigh community.
“The renovated Clayton University Center reflects the evolution of Lehigh itself: embracing both progress and tradition, exemplifying innovation and belonging. This building is the heart of our community, and the opportunities it now provides are a reminder that the Lehigh experience is made possible through the generosity of our peers, alumni, donors, staff and faculty who empower students to thrive. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Clayton for their extraordinary commitment to the Lehigh student experience, and to every donor and leader whose vision brought this renewal to life. You haven’t just reimagined a building; you’ve reignited the heartbeat of our campus.
“That’s what makes today’s time capsule dedication so meaningful. It captures who we are now—our challenges, our hopes, our shared sense of purpose—and preserves them for those who will follow. When future Lehigh students open it, they’ll find more than mementos; they’ll find the reflection of a community that believed in them before they arrived.
As we dedicate this time capsule, we’re also dedicating our gratitude to the generations who built this place, to those who sustain it now and to those who will inherit its legacy. The Clayton University Center reminds us that while time moves forward, Lehigh’s heart keeps beating steady, strong and full of life.”
