Lehigh University launched an ambitious strategy, Inspiring the Future Makers, in June 2023. This report provides an overview of highlights from academic year 2023-2024, the first year of implementation, focusing on progress toward our high-level goals to be a leader in student outcomes, be more deeply interdisciplinary in our educational programs, double research activity and ensure Lehigh is a place where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.
To Make it New, we innovate, take risks and spark curiosity.
To Make a Difference, we think differently, break boundaries and translate theory into practice to make the greatest impact.
To Make it Together, we foster belonging, cultivate connections and strengthen community.
The work of Lehigh’s Inspiring the Future Makers Strategy is in service to these overarching goals and distributed across 10 initiatives. Organized around themes that underpin the strategy—Research, Education, Community and Infrastructure—this report describes actions and impacts we have already achieved and lessons learned, and highlights plans for the coming year.
Progress relies on the Lehigh community working together—supporting, leading and empowering one another to integrate the strategy’s goals into our collective efforts for our learning community.
Milestones and Achievements
The four themes that underpin the plan—Research, Education, Community and Infrastructure—detail the work that teams across the university are doing. Learn more about the efforts in these areas below.
Research
With a target to double research activity, Lehigh set out to identify areas for investment that will elevate existing research expertise to greater global visibility and impact.
Education
To be a leader in student outcomes, Lehigh will expand interdisciplinary undergraduate education, innovative pedagogy and experiential learning opportunities, and transform doctoral education.
Community
Lehigh is committed to supporting an environment where all students, faculty and staff can experience a full sense of belonging, and where we deepen our connection with the Lehigh Valley community through partnership and shared experiences.
Infrastructure
An organization of the future leverages technology, contains costs and makes decisions using quantitative and qualitative data.
Lessons Learned
Community feedback identified opportunities to reframe our approach to some of our goals.
The Work Ahead
As we plan for the year ahead, key projects were identified by our initiative leads, incorporating valuable input from the Lehigh community to drive progress across critical areas.
Learn more about the deliverables and projects anticipated or already underway for AY 2024-2025.