Renovations in the Clayton University Center at Packer Hall are nearing completion ahead of schedule. Beginning in January 2025, students, faculty and staff will be welcomed into the reimagined heart of campus. The revitalized space is designed to be a vibrant hub for all members of the community.
The transformation of the Clayton University Center is a significant investment in the Lehigh Community. It is slated to come to life as a dynamic center for activity, connection, and collaboration. New spaces including the Club Hub (for Lehigh’s 200+ clubs and organizations), Great Room (outfitted with comfortable lounge areas, pool tables and more), and the conference-style Harmon Boardroom (made possible with a gift from the Harmon Family in memory of Elaine and John J. Harmon ’59 ’83P) are all designed to build community and deepen student engagement. These new spaces will support academic and professional growth while enhancing the social and collaborative experiences that will make Clayton University Center a thriving hub of community.
“We are excited to unveil this new space for people to gather and connect in a variety of ways, from collaborating with peers to hosting events or sharing a meal,” said Joseph J. Helble ’82. “I’m deeply grateful to all who have brought this to life, especially Kevin and Lisa Clayton, whose generosity made this project possible.”
Movement in the building will begin in the remaining days of December and continue through winter break, as offices transition to the Clayton University Center. Offices that are moving will be fully relocated when students return to campus for the start of the spring semester.
Opening Events in January
The reopening will be marked with a series of events spanning three weeks in January, and the entire Lehigh community will be invited to experience the new space. Opening week activities will include a firepit lighting with hot chocolate and refreshments, food tastings, paint night, trivia, a coffeehouse in the Great Room featuring live music, office tours and more.
A full schedule of events will be shared in January, and community members are invited to join in commemorating the revitalization of this beloved space.
“The Clayton University Center has been a top priority for university leadership, and opening ahead of schedule is a reflection of our commitment to the project,” said Chris Cook, interim vice president for finance and administration. “We are eager to welcome all members of our community into the lively reimagined space.”
New Dining Options
January also brings the launch of several exciting dining venues within the Clayton University Center, including the Lehigh Pub, a unique European-inspired bistro offering full lunch and dinner menus. Meal deals will be offered for the exchange of one meal swipe. A variety of other eateries featuring a wide range of cuisines will also debut over the course of three weeks, beginning in January.
“We have thoughtfully developed a diverse range of dining options and cuisines to meet the needs of the community and we hope people will want to visit again and again,” said David Joseph, executive director of auxiliary services.
During the opening days, community members can enjoy exclusive discounts (which will also be available via Grubhub), giveaways, tastings, and more. Dining Services will be gathering feedback to fine-tune offerings and ensure dining options meet the needs of our community.
Also launching in the spring semester is a new “Take Your Student/Faculty to Lunch” program.
Looking Ahead
The reopening reflects the University’s commitment to strengthening the sense of community and connection within the walls of the Clayton University Center. An official Grand Opening Celebration and Building Dedication are planned for fall 2025.
There are still ways to support the project at all levels. More information can be found here.
