Inside Lehigh’s Clayton University Center Renovation

Donning a hard hat and protective gear, Kevin Clayton ’84 ’13P, former chair of the Board of Trustees and past interim president of Lehigh University, recently got his first up-close-and-personal look at the massive building renovation he’s helping to fuel.

Clayton, with his wife, Lisa A. Clayton ’13P, made the initial $20 million gift to fund the update of the Clayton University Center at Packer Hall. Last month, alongside facility experts and President Joseph J. Helble ’82, Clayton picked his way through the gutted building, avoiding mud puddles and climbing scaffolding as he imagined the building in its future, finished state.

“It's a game changer,” Clayton remarked. “This building recognizes the great traditions and the history in the generations that came before us. I think this will certainly bring all of the Lehigh community together — students, faculty, staff, and prospective students and their parents. Asa Packer would be very proud!”

The renovated facility will preserve the historic nature of the building while creating a dynamic, state-of-the-art environment for student life and the entire Lehigh community. Highlights will include spaces where students can collaborate in areas designed for work, learning, events, casual gatherings, dining, club activities, offices, and student services.

"The renovated Clayton University Center will be a crossroads for our community at the center of our campus," said Helble. "The new, modern facility will enable our students to connect in new ways with each other and with the resources and experiences that uphold their success at Lehigh.”

Clayton found the plans for the new welcome area, the Lower Eatery, the Pub, and the Boardroom of particular interest. “Everyone remembers their first days on campus, and food is always an attraction,” he said.

During the walk-through, fellow alumni Clayton and Helble reminisced about time spent in the building, commenting on bygone features like the student mailboxes, the now-defunct dumbwaiter in the Asa Packer faculty dining room, and the message boards in the hallways. “I ran for a few class officer positions during my four years here, and I can still picture my handwritten campaign signs Scotch-taped to the walls,” said Clayton. 

Clayton also noted how important the building has been to the educational experience at Lehigh. 

“I have fond memories of meeting with students, interacting with faculty and staff over the years, and then, of course, during my years as a trustee. I think of all the monumental decisions that were made over the years and the generations that came out of that building,” he said. “Even though it’s not a classroom, everyone at Lehigh learns a lot during their time in the University Center.”

The Clayton University Center closed for renovation in January 2023. To date, much of the work has been focused on clearing out the building to prepare for new construction. During the process, original architectural elements, windows, and stonework have been uncovered. 

“I am extremely excited to reopen the University Center, and for what that will mean for attracting the best and finest students, faculty, and staff to Lehigh. Lehigh’s on a roll!” Clayton commented.

The original building built by Asa Packer opened in 1868 as Packer Hall, and the last major renovation was in the 1950s. The renovation is expected to be completed in 2025. News about the renovation and updates on progress can be found on Lehigh’s facilities website.