Like any year on South Mountain, 2018 provided countless moments that made us stand up and cheer.
We’re going to do the impossible and wrap up 2018 in just TEN photos.
1. The Finest Band East of All Points West Across the Pond
2018 kicked off with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the Marching 97. Lehigh’s favorite marching band performed in London’s 2018 New Year’s Day Parade. The Marching 97 was “rearing and tearing” through London streets. They also performed at an alumni reception and at the historic Cadogan Hall. Photo by Robert Haines ’79.
2. South Mountain Meets Silicon Valley
In January, fifty-six Lehigh students took part in the seventh annual LehighSiliconValley — an immersive and highly selective course set in Silicon Valley. During the course, students meet with and learn from experts, entrepreneurs, and inventors — many of who are Lehigh alumni, like Shannon Varcoe ’15 ’16G (center), Program Manager for the Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation. Photo by Christa Neu.
3. “It’s a day of reflection and excitement for what’s to come.”
Deloitte CEO and one of Fortune Magazine Most Powerful Women of 2018 Cathy Engelbert ’86 (right) gave the 2018 Commencement address in May. Cathy was introduced to the stage by fellow alumna and Deloitte partner Dipti Gulati ’90 (left). Photo by John Kish IV.
4. And the Awards go to…
Volunteers, like Ralph Thomas ’76 ’77G ’16P (right), were honored for their dedication to Lehigh during the Brown & White Awards Night. The annual event gives fellow alumni and Lehigh staff an opportunity to show their appreciation for volunteers. Ralph was this year’s Dr. Costel Denson ’56 Award recipient, presented by Donald A. Outing, Ph.D., Vice President for Equity and Community (left). Photo by Ryan Hulvat.
5. Getting the Gang Back Together
Reunion Weekend was packed with fun activities to relive, rediscover, and reunite. Soiree Under the Stars, a festive event that includes live music, food, photo booths, and more, was just one of this year’s many Reunion attractions. Save the Date for Reunion 2019: June 6-9! Photo by Ryan Hulvat.
6. “Who are you?!” “22!”
The long-standing tradition continued when we celebrated The Rally in August. Ollie Foucek ’72 ’05P ’09P (above) and other members of the Class of 1972 officially adopted the incoming Class of 2022. The Class of 2022 is considered Lehigh’s most competitive class, accepting under 22% of more than 15,000 applicants. Photo by John Kish IV.
7. A Warm Welcome to Lehigh
Starting the 2018-19 academic year, associate professor in the Department of Theatre Kashi Johnson ’93 (center) was the keynote speaker at the convocation ceremony. Incoming students also enjoyed remarks by Ricardo Hall, Vice Provost for Student Affairs, Bethlehem Mayor Bob Donchez, and other leaders in the Lehigh community. Photo by Christa Neu.
8. “Go, Lehigh, Go!”
In October, the Lehigh community celebrated the launch of a $1 billion-plus fundraising and engagement effort — the most ambitious campaign in university history. More than 5,000 people attended the three-day celebration on-campus, in New York City, and in San Francisco. During the launch, President John Simon (left) announced a $20 million gift from Lehigh Board of Trustees Chair Kevin L. Clayton ’84 ’13P (right) and Lisa A. Clayton ’13P. Photo by Christa Neu.
9. Lehigh beats Lafayette. Again.
Head Coach Andy Coen (second from right) and Director of Athletics Joe Sterrett ’76 ’78G ’03P ’05P ’07P ’09P (right), celebrate with the Lehigh football players after a 34-3 victory against Lafayette. Coen, who recently stepped down from his position, ends his Lehigh career with four consecutive victories against the Leopards. Photo by Christa Neu.
10. Breaking Ground
In 2018, Lehigh formally broke ground on two major on-campus construction projects — Bridge West residence hall (above) and Southside Commons. Pictured above, from left to right: Brent Stringfellow, Associate Vice President and University Architect; Robert L. Brown III ’78, Vice Chair of the Lehigh Board of Trustees; President John Simon; Ricardo Hall, Vice Provost for Student Affairs; and Patricia A. Johnson, Vice President for Finance and Administration. Photo by Stephanie Veto.
What was your favorite Lehigh moment from 2018?