One of the most gratifying things about my role as vice president of development and alumni relations is having the chance to connect with so many people. Lehigh’s community is vast, and I have had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with alumni, parents and friends as I’ve traveled up the East Coast, out west toward the Pacific and, most recently, abroad to London. It certainly has been a rewarding start to my first year at Lehigh.
And, yes, all this travel means that I spend a lot of time in the air and in the car with President Joseph J. Helble ’82. Throughout our travels and during Lehigh’s fall traditions like The Rally, I’ve also gotten to know him better as a person, a leader and a Lehigh alumnus.
Joe is just one person. Our community is filled with many incredible leaders and visionaries who channel their Lehigh experiences, talents and skills to ensure generations of students can come to campus and thrive. From volunteers and trustees, to first-year students and their families, to generations of Lehigh Future Makers, I’ve heard your stories and felt your enthusiasm. We are all leaders when we are willing to participate in something larger than ourselves. You are the strength behind Lehigh and this vibrant community.
Joe often says that this moment belongs to Lehigh—to all of us. We have the right strategy in Inspiring the Future Makers to shape our future. It will take all of us to step up to meet this moment. From what I see on the road, we are well on our way.
To capture some of that joy and excitement about Lehigh I’ve felt, I’m sharing a picture from my time on the road. I look forward to meeting and working with more of you soon!
With Gratitude,
Carol Packard
Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations
