Clayton UC

The revitalized Clayton University Center at Packer Hall reopened in January, serving as a vibrant hub for the Lehigh community.

Successes Advancing Lehigh’s Mission

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A letter from Lehigh President Joseph J. Helble in the Spring 2025 Alumni Bulletin.

Photography by

Mahawa Bangoura '27

The spring semester has brought many successes that advance the goals outlined in our long-term strategy, Inspiring the Future Makers.

In February, Lehigh was designated as an R1 research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, a prestigious honor that places us among the nation’s 187 leading research universities.

This designation strengthens our ability to attract top faculty, staff and students who want to be part of a university solving global challenges. We look forward to furthering our research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and innovation, and drives real change.

Consistent with our growth in research, Lehigh recently launched two new University Research Centers (URCs): the Center for Community-Driven Assistive Technologies (CDAT) and the Center for Advancing Community Electrification Solutions (ACES). CDAT will explore novel ways to improve the lives of people with disabilities, while ACES will focus on creating efficient, reliable and self-sustaining energy systems.

President Joseph J. Helble '82 illustration

They join our Center for Catastrophe Modeling and Resilience, which was established last year. Together, these URCs will focus on addressing critical needs and challenges in society.

Prior to those exciting advancements, we welcomed students, staff and faculty into the revitalized Clayton University Center at Packer Hall, which reopened in January a full semester ahead of schedule. The reopening reflects Lehigh’s commitment to strengthening the sense of community and connection within the walls of this re-imagined iconic core of our campus. An official Building Dedication is planned for fall 2025.

Looking ahead, we are eager to launch Explore Lehigh this fall, an exploratory first-semester program consistent with our goal of expanding opportunities for deeply interdisciplinary learning. This pilot program will allow students to enter Lehigh without selecting a specific academic college in advance, giving them opportunity to explore the breadth of the curriculum.

Through all of this, our focus and commitment remains clear: advancing Lehigh’s educational and research mission, being nimble and innovative and fostering a community of belonging that welcomes and supports every individual.

I thank you for your continued support.

Joseph J. Helble '82
President of Lehigh University

Photography by

Mahawa Bangoura '27