Lehigh alumni gathered at the Iacocca Conference Center prior to the 2026 Reunion weekend to celebrate Brown and White Night, which recognizes some of the most dedicated and passionate Lehigh supporters who make a meaningful difference at the university.
The annual celebration honors: winners of Reunion Class Awards, volunteer leaders, and accomplished alumni who have strengthened the community, enriched the student experience, and helped move the university forward.
President Joseph J. Helble ’82 said that those gathered have “long been committed to Lehigh’s cause and have led the way by setting an example for others. You are changing Lehigh and changing the lives of our students.”
Congratulations to all the award recipients!
Eugene G. Grace 1899 Award
Marty Matijasich ’71
2026 Eugene G. Grace 1899 Award Recipient
The Eugene G. Grace 1899 Award, named for the longtime chairman of both Bethlehem Steel and Lehigh’s Board of Trustees, is presented in recognition of distinguished service encouraging support of Lehigh University, given by the Office of Development and Alumni Relations.
Joseph R. Persa ’48 Award
Bruce "YoGi" Perry ’76 P’10
2026 Joseph R. Persa ’48 Award Recipient
The Joseph R. Persa ’48 Award is given to the individual who has made the greatest contribution to an outstanding class reunion. This award is presented in memory of a dedicated alumnus who served with distinction as general reunion chairman from 1958 until his death in 1980.
Class Correspondent Milestones
Celebrating more than 25 years of service:
- Jim Tiefenbrunn ’66 MBA’72
- David L. Polakoff ’86
- Diana (Zoller) Perkins ’91
Celebrating more than 50 years of service:
- William T. Burgin Jr. ’56
Alumni Award
Alumni Award recipients have provided continued support to the university by giving their time and energy, contributing significantly to the life of their respective communities.
- Weston B. Wardell Jr. ’51
- William T. Burgin Jr. ’56
- Ken Weaver ’61
- Robert J. Schmidt ’66 M’70 P’98
- James R. Dale ’71 GP’20
- Jamie Holbrook ’76
- Francesca (Fran) Sturiale Bartlett ’81 P’11
- Gary G. Pan ’86 P’16
- Michele L. Finder ’91
- Richard B. Margolies ’96 P’30
- Antraveous Slaton ’01
- Vera A. Partem ’06 ’07
- Julie A. Frehafer ’11
- Jordy Salcedo-Giraldo ’16, MD
- Julia Pardee ’21
