The gift also creates great momentum to unlock the $4 million matching gift from the Iacocca Family Foundation to the Iacocca Institute and an additional $1 million matching gift to support Lehigh’s global initiatives. “It’s important to Sharon and me that every student have the opportunity to learn about the world through international education,” Maida said. “We were inspired to create this endowment after talking with Dr. Henry Odi about the Passport to Success program.” “The Maidas’ unwavering commitment is transforming education at Lehigh University,” said Odi, deputy vice president for equity and community and associate provost for academic diversity. “They both believe that the next generation of leaders, regardless of their background, must have a well-integrated education that includes global experience.” James and Sharon Maida are long-standing philanthropic leaders at Lehigh, and James also serves on the Board of Trustees. Members of the 1865 Society and the Tower Society, they have provided for the Lehigh Fund, established scholarships, and launched numerous initiatives to benefit students. In addition to funding global learning experiences in perpetuity, their latest contribution also endowed a previously established current-use scholarship for local high school students to attend Lehigh. It’s a gift with a direct throughline to the future and an example of the power of endowment support. “James and Sharon are opening doors for students who may have never dreamed of experiencing the world through international education,” said Carol Packard, vice president of development and alumni relations. “Their dedication to creating opportunities that foster personal growth, cultural understanding, and global leadership is inspiring, and their impact on the Lehigh community will be felt for generations. We are so grateful for their enduring service and generosity.” James Maida ’85 ’17P ’19P and Sharon Maida ’17P ’19P 13
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0OTQ5OA==