Purpose Statement: Lehigh will be a place where everyone feels valued. The Lehigh experience must be welcoming, engaging and personal. For newcomers, the onboarding, orientation and mentoring programs will be welcoming and informative. We will review policies for equity and inclusiveness and provide resources for physical and mental wellness. We will continue promoting and developing a community committed to cultural diversity as an essential part of the learning environment.

Leads: Donald Outing, Katherine Lavinder

Project Manager: Christine Lake

Strategic Goals Supported: 

  • Make a Difference
    • Focus deeply in interdisciplinary research and education.
    • Lead in student learning outcomes through building from theory to practice to expertise.
    • Build and strengthen external partnerships.
    • Become a user-focused university.
  • Make it Together
    • Broaden Lehigh’s global perspective and impact.
    • Enhance access and equity, develop trust and ensure a sense of belonging for all members of the Lehigh community.
    • Strengthen and grow community engagement and service, and partnerships within Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley.

Strategic Throughlines: Global, Wellness

Important Organizational Infrastructure: Community Impact Committee

Highlights and Accomplishments: 

  • Developed a Belonging Roadmap Steering Committee (comprising faculty, students, and staff) to refine priorities, ensure cross-campus ownership, and align with existing strategic initiatives. (Formed in Spring 2026)
  • Developed a streamlined system for student funding opportunities on campus to increase student awareness and accessibility of funding sources available. Collaborative work with Student Affairs, Office of Inclusive Excellence & Belonging, Office of International Students & Scholars, Office of International Affairs, the Office of Financial Aid and the Office of Creative Inquiry.

Explore more accomplishments for this and other initiatives on the Completed Projects page.

Resources: 

Have a question or want to get involved? Reach out to vpec@lehigh.edu