Rendering: Spillman Farmer Architects
Our Vision
Since our founding in 1912 as Penn State’s first Commonwealth Campus, Penn State Lehigh Valley has forged new paths of opportunity for ambitious, hard-working students in our community. We have strengthened our region’s economy and quality of life by preparing students to contribute their talents to our region’s industries. Today, as more students turn to Penn State Lehigh Valley as their gateway to a great education and a fulfilling career, we are more committed to this mission than ever. To help realize this vision, we require facilities as modern and sophisticated as our students and faculty.
Project Details
Community leaders Former Congressman Charlie Dent ’82 and Former PPL CEO Bill Spence ’79 have lent their voices to help Penn State Lehigh Valley draw awareness to our plans to completely renovate and expand our building. Pending the successful completion of additional fundraising efforts, the first floor will feature a full-service cafeteria, and the second floor will provide space for student programming. A new third floor, to be known as the STEM Wing, will be devoted exclusively to STEM education and will feature:
- 2,199 sq. ft. laboratory to accommodate organic chemistry courses
- Prep lab, equipment room, and lab technician office
- Lounge and office for STEM tutoring programs
- 948 sq. ft. classroom and two faculty offices
The new lab will allow us, for the first time ever, to offer organic chemistry at our campus, which enables our students to complete the full complement of undergrad courses required for medical school right here at our campus.
"I am convinced of the need for this addition, so I have personally made a gift to this worthwhile project."
– Bill Spence, Former Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, PPL Corporation
Need for Support
The entire renovation project, estimated to cost $14.4 million, is such a high priority for Penn State Lehigh Valley and the region we serve that Penn State has committed $8 million to move the project forward. Our students, through the Student Government Association, have also committed $1.6 million to the project.
To realize our goal of completing this project, we must secure private gift commitments for $1.8 million from alumni friends and local partners.
Impact and Outcomes
This effort will elevate our region’s educational opportunities and create a pipeline of talent for the STEM fields, which in turn will help to support the economic vitality of our community. It will significantly increase the number of local students equipped to achieve their academic goals at Penn State Lehigh Valley, launch meaningful careers with the Penn State degrees, and help drive the Lehigh Valley’s economy forward.
"Lending a helping hand is an essential part of who we are in the Lehigh Valley. Your contribution will provide students with greater opportunities while supporting economic development."
– Charlie Dent, Former U.S. Representative for PA District 15
