In recognition of Lehigh’s 50th anniversary of coeducation, the university has announced a $50 million fundraising effort in support of a wide range of initiatives that benefit Lehigh women.
“The goal is to open Lehigh’s doors to talented women, to create new learning opportunities, and to remove any barriers they may face so that they can achieve their highest aspirations,” said President Joseph J. Helble at the Leadership Recognition Dinner on Oct. 16.
The initiative aims to help all Lehigh women reach their full potential and honors the transformative impact they have had on the university, in their careers and in their communities.
Philanthropic gifts given with a preference to women for scholarships, experiential learning funds, faculty support, graduate student support, research funding and other initiatives will count toward the goal. The effort is part of GO: The Campaign for Lehigh.
Nearly $7 million has already been raised. This includes a $1 million gift from Cathy Engelbert ’86 ’23P, commissioner of the WNBA, to establish the LEAD (Leadership, Empowerment, Athletics, Distinction) Scholars program, a leadership development program for women athletes. An alumni couple has also made an anonymous gift of $1 million to a new Lehigh scholarship program that integrates support for scholarships, experiential learning, and mentorship experiences.
The $50 million initiative is being featured during Soaring Together, an ongoing celebration of Lehigh women and their accomplishments, in honor of the milestone anniversary. The celebration includes special events, projects and stories from across the university.
To support this philanthropic initiative and learn more about Soaring Together, visit lehigh.edu/soaringtogether.
