Students sitting at tables and walking around the entrance to the Clayton UC.

Clayton University Center

Your Legacy at the Heart of Lehigh

When you name a space in the renovated Clayton University Center at Packer Hall, you create a lasting impact recognized and celebrated by generations to come. Explore the opportunity to join the dozens of alumni and friends who have already made a commitment to build a thriving community at the heart of campus. Naming and recognition opportunities begin at $50,000. 

The exterior of the Clayton UC at dusk.

Picture This

Are you imagining your name on a signature space in the new Clayton University Center? To learn more about how you can leave your mark, contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations at (610) 758-6748 or GOcampaign@lehigh.edu.

Signature Spaces

Rendering of the Lower Eatery Space

This first-level Lower Eatery is a flexible, open space where all students, with or without a meal plan, gather to share a meal, study, pick up essentials from the adjacent convenience store, or grab a coffee between classes.

Rendering of the Gallery

With windows facing onto the Clayton University Center front lawn, this newly renovated gallery and multi-functional space offer beautiful views of campus and feature tall, stately doors leading to the Living Room.

Rendering of the Living Room

The vibrant Living Room is a central location where students can gather to study and socialize, anchored at the east end by one of the building’s original fireplaces. Two smaller areas along the north end with seating, wall-mounted screens, and integrated technology offer an ideal place for collaboration and group work, as will the five small meeting rooms along the south wall.

Rendering of the Club Hub

Lehigh has more than 200 student clubs and organizations on campus. The Club Hub is a single location where all clubs can reserve flexible space. This dedicated area increases club access and visibility, unifies student activity across campus, and situates them within the same building as student life support staff.

Rendering of the Crossing

This open, multi-use space is a comfortable place for students to gather for meals, small group study, or to rest and regroup between classes.

Rendering of the Great Room

This renovation reclaims the original Victorian-style design and reopens the large, Gothic windows to lighten and brighten this uniquely Lehigh room. Modern materials and colors will be incorporated while still honoring the room’s history and character, including its signature trusses. Students will be able to relax and have fun in this designated lounging space, with two pool tables, a wall-mounted flatscreen, and a temporary stage for entertainment.

Rendering of the Pub

A truly one-of-a-kind space on campus, this retail dining experience offers a full menu to students and guests from breakfast through dinner. Inspired by European bistros as well as more traditional taverns, students and our entire community can gather to enjoy a drink or meal.

Rendering of the South Entry

This beautiful outdoor space is a destination for students and student groups to dine, socialize, and study. Located in close proximity to both the Upper Eatery and Club Hub, the South Terrace and Porch provides an upgraded south entrance, connecting the upper and lower campuses.

A male Lehigh student in a grey t-shirt sits at a round table smiling, next to a brown panel with a white line drawing of the Clayton University Center at Lehigh University.

In This Image: The Clayton UC is already shaping student life in meaningful ways. Hear directly from students about how this space is bringing the community together.

Beall Fowler stands in the former Asa Packer Ballroom and admires the refurbished stained glass windows, touching one.

In This Image: W. Beall Fowler '59, professor emeritus in physics, takes us back in time to discuss what students did during renovations and what it meant when the University Center reopened.

Mary Beth Tully sitting in a well lit room and gesturing with her hands

In This Image: Alumna and Board of Trustees member Mary Beth Tully '84 '21P '21P speaks about her decision to support the Clayton University Center renovation project by funding the welcome desk.

Clayton University Center exterior surrounded by scaffolding

In This Image: Scheduled for completion in fall 2025, the renovation of the Clayton University Center promises to honor the building's rich history and meet the students' contemporary needs, ensuring it remains a central part of campus life for generations to come.

Rendering of the Clayton University Center Great Room

In This Image: With the Clayton University Center renovation, the iconic building will not only be restored to its original grandeur but will also be reinvented to support our active, collaborative, vibrant campus life.

Harmon Family Gift Honors Their Parents' Legacy

Daughters of Elaine and John J. Harmon ’59 ’83P honor their parents with a gift to the Clayton University Center, scholarships, and campus discourse.
Elaine and John Harmon stand with the granddaughter Laura between them.

The Harmon family’s gift continues the momentum of the Clayton University Center renovation. Behind the scaffolding, a new hub for student life is taking shape, and this gift will literally help build that exceptional environment for everyone.

Kevin L. Clayton ’84 ’13P

A Warm Welcome at the Clayton UC

Clayton UC donors Gary ’86 and Garrett Pan ’16 visited campus to view the new fire pit, a stunning addition to campus courtesy of the renovation.
Gary and Garrett Pan stand beside the blazing fire pit, each reaching their right hand out to feel the warmth of the fire.

I think that when we invest in things like the fire pit, it’s good for everyone. But as an alumnus, I find that the investment of my personal energy, my time and talent, to help Lehigh move forward is the most rewarding.

Gary Pan ’86

A Building for Future Makers

The Lehigh community is sharing meals, studying together, attending events, and making memories in the renovated Clayton University Center.

Clayton University Center framed by light pink flowers

Want to get involved?