Richard Verma ’90, former U.S. ambassador to India and former U.S. deputy secretary of state for management and resources, recently had his six-month term as the university’s inaugural President’s Distinguished Fellow extended through December 2025.
Verma will continue to engage with Lehigh students and the broader university community through a variety of activities. As the President’s Distinguished Fellow, Verma has led discussions on national and global issues, shared insights on leadership in complex times, guest lectured classes, hosted programs and mentored students.
During mentoring meetings with students, Verma drew on his extensive experience in government, diplomacy and international relations. He covered topics such as global affairs, career development and more.
“Lehigh is a great community of alumni, faculty and staff, and it's an institution that invites you to be engaged with that community for many years well beyond your graduation,” Verma said during a mentoring meeting with students in February. “It’s been such a reliable part of my life, so it’s great to be able to be here with you and hearing directly from you.”
Engaging with Lehigh
Verma attended Lehigh on an Air Force ROTC scholarship and earned a bachelor of science degree in industrial engineering with a minor in international relations. Since then, he has remained actively involved with the university through various roles, including as a trustee and Commencement speaker.
His Fellowship underscores Lehigh’s dedication to preparing students for the complexities of a rapidly changing world. By inviting leaders like Verma to share their expertise, the university continues to enhance its academic environment and position itself as a hub for meaningful dialogue on national and global issues.
Verma discussed global issues during his Presidential Distinguished Fellow Lecture titled “From South Mountain to the State Department: A Diplomat's View of Global Challenges and Opportunities” held on April 18 at Zoellner Arts Center.
Verma told the audience that although national and global challenges in a rapidly changing world can feel overwhelming, progress and the betterment of future generations starts close to home within communities like the Lehigh Valley.
“The people-to-people contacts that you make, the friendships and relationships you build, the values you share… this will be the glue that holds us together,” Verma said.
Building Connections
In addition to mentoring students and speaking on campus, Verma also hosted a program that took students to New York City.
In April, a group of students traveled to the Ford Foundation headquarters and the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York City for conversations with leaders, including former secretary of homeland security Jeh Johnson, Ford Foundation president Darren Walker and acting U.S. ambassador to the U.N. Dorothy Shea.
The visit was made possible through Verma, who played a pivotal role in coordinating the day’s events and led the delegation. The itinerary offered students the opportunity to engage directly with influential figures shaping national and international policy.
Story By Colin McEvoy, Carina Sitkus and Lauren Thein
