In 2024, Lehigh stories sparked conversations, inspired action, and reminded us of the enduring power of connection. They reflect not just where we’ve been but where we’re going as a community shaped by shared values, bold aspirations, and entrepreneurial drive.
Join us in revisiting the stories that resonated most with readers this year, ranked by unique user views. Be sure to let us know what other stories are still out there so we can continue highlighting Lehigh’s exceptional alumni, students, and faculty!
The Stories You Loved!
Top 10 Stories of 2024
1. ESPN Broadcaster Kayla Burton '17
Relying on grit, hard work, and perseverance, Kayla Burton ’17 has moved up the ranks in broadcast journalism.
2. Meet the Scholars
Meet the inaugural class of Soaring Together scholars — standouts from the Class of 2027.
3. The 2024 10 Under 10
We highlight 10 young alumni who graduated in the past decade and have done amazing things while also remaining engaged with Lehigh.
4. Lehigh at the Olympics
Many players and coaches have competed at the national level in hopes of representing their country in the Olympics.
5. A Winning Recipe
Josh Senior ’08 is executive producer of the Hulu series “The Bear”, a show about the inner workings of the restaurant industry. Senior and the show recently won big at the Golden Globes and creative arts Emmys.
6. Love and Scholarship
Dan ’97 and Mariela ’97 Pietrzak came to Lehigh for accounting but got so much more: love, marriage, lifelong friends, and the means to create a scholarship.
7. Giving Back, Greek Style
Hal ’02 and Erin ’02 Rechler’s Greek experience inspired them to make a generous gift recently for UC renovations and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life.
8. Punching Their Ticket to Success
Selling event tickets with integrity in mind put Brett Goldberg ’07 and Chris O'Brien ’07 in prime position to stand out amid a competitive marketplace.
9. National Spouses Day — Lehigh style!
Did you know there’s a holiday for married folks? In honor of National Spouses Day on January 26, here are a few Lehigh love stories that led to the altar.
10. Diving Into Books
Author, publisher, and photographer Michael Patrick O'Neill ’88 turned a hobby — underwater photography — into a career he loves.
Beyond the Top Ten
Here are some more of your favorites from 2024
Hawks-pitality: Axia Taverna
Alex Parlamis ’98 is carrying on his family’s legacy and providing his hometown with a Mediterranean fine dining experience committed to consistent quality.
2024 Graduates: What's Next
Members of the Lehigh Class of 2024 turned their tassels from the right to left. See what turns lie ahead in their career and professional success.
The Professors Who Shaped Us: Alumni Share Their Stories
Lehigh alumni share how professors shaped their education, highlighting the impact of their mentorship, leadership, and friendship.
