Beginning with their adoption in August 2007, we have been working closely with the class of 2011 in an effort titled by the combination of our class numerals–611 challenge. We have met frequently with the 2011 class officers and they participated in a program in advance of our Kingston Trio concert and in meet and greet sessions. Other classes have gotten the idea and a meet and greet for all undergraduate classes with their adopting class followed the Alumni Day football game in October. We have awarded scholarship prizes of $1000 each to three members of the class who exemplify Lehigh spirit and leadership at the October alumni game in 2008 and 2009 and plan to repeat in 2010.

A Selection Committee consisting of Ed Watters, Jim Williams and Ken Smith interviewed candidates for these prizes. As Ed so nicely put it: “We could have picked any of the finalists- they are just great students very involved with many aspects of Lehigh”.

To enhance marketing of their class gift campaign, we plan to put up a $20,000 challenge which will be added to their class gift if they meet participation goals. Their class gift will be toward scholarships. Should they fail to meet their goal, the money will be added to the Class of 1961 scholarship endowment.