8 Endowment Perspective When Asa Packer founded Lehigh University in 1865, he realized that a solid financial base was necessary if his vision was to transcend the generations. His $3 million initial endowment fund, Lehigh’s first, is now one of the largest funds in Lehigh’s $1.8 billion endowment. Packer’s fund has been joined by almost 3,000 other endowments. Together, they advance Lehigh’s strategic priorities and the programs about which you care so deeply. Consider the ways in which endowment has an impact: Endurance. The endowment is one of Lehigh’s most powerful financial tools. Your support sustains the educational mission of the university and creates a legacy for generations to come. Quality and Reputation. The effect of a gift to Lehigh’s endowment, particularly one in support of financial aid and scholarship, ensures that the most talented students have access to a distinctive Lehigh education. This helps increase the quality of Lehigh’s academic profile and reputation. Prestige. Named endowed funds allow Lehigh to recognize the generosity of the donors who make them possible and also carry great honor for the beneficiaries who put their knowledge and expertise to work to expand our impact as a university. Agility. When continuous resources are provided by endowment, annual budget dollars become available to pursue ideas and innovations, allowing Lehigh to remain competitive and thriving in today’s rapidly changing world. COVID-19 presented unprecedented challenges, yet students remained resilient and adaptive upon their return to in-person learning.
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