When alumni look back at their time on campus, there’s a certain nostalgia tied to Lehigh traditions. Those annual events become celebrations that link generations, and every so often, they take on an especially personal meaning. This year, as the Class of 1980 adopted the Class of 2030 at the Rally, Glenn Cianci ’80 P’30 was there to support his daughter, Gillian Cianci ’30.
“I didn’t originally intend on coming to Lehigh, but when I visited campus, it was a eureka moment,” says Gillian.
Glenn jokes that his daughter’s initial hesitation had something to do with following in her father’s footsteps. Now, he has a renewed connection to the university and the opportunity to experience Lehigh through his daughter’s eyes.
“When I went to Lehigh, the Rally used to be in Grace Hall, and I remember that night vividly,” says Glenn. “I hope Gillian takes away a similar sentiment from the Rally that I did: It’s your first introduction to the Lehigh community.”
As they stood among the alumni flags on display during their campus tour, they glanced back and forth between their respective class flags. In that moment, they noticed the similarities between them. As part of the adoption tradition, the flags 50 years apart are designed to reflect one another.
“It made it all come into perspective,” says Gillian. “This is a connection I get to share with my dad, 50 years apart from when he was standing in my shoes.”
For Glenn, pride is too small of a word. He remembers when Gillian was discussing her college options with her high school guidance counselor. The counselor had initially passed over Lehigh rather quickly. When Gillian questioned why, the counselor told her that Lehigh was too much of a reach and wasn't worth considering.
With the support of her family, Gillian had the confidence to apply anyway. When she was accepted through early decision, it was a major triumph. Now, she’s moved into the same residence hall where her father lived during his freshman year — and, in many ways, it feels like fate.
While Gillian doesn’t intend to become a “grumpy old engineer like my father,” she hopes to pursue neuroscience. Whatever path she takes, she knows her family will be there to support her every step of the way.
“Lehigh has brought us closer together,” Gillian says. “My father would support me no matter what, but I’m glad we have this, too.”
Their Rally experience is just one more memory they’ve made together — one that will stay with them long after the flags are put away.
