Correspondence for the 2025 Summer Edition of the Lehigh Alumni Bulletin
In the Fall of 2024, an intriguing anecdote from Lehigh University's past was brought to light, as detailed in the Lehigh Alumni Bulletin. The story revolves around two prominent figures: Gene Mercy, a trustee leader for the Presidential Search Committee in 1997-98, and Dave Williams, a distinguished professor of materials science and engineering at Lehigh.
Gene Mercy, a man of significant influence in both the U.S. and the international community, hosted a dinner at his apartment on Park Avenue for the Presidential Search Committee. The gathering was a unique occasion, as they interviewed a sitting private university president during the event.
Dave Williams, with his impressive background in materials science and engineering, was one of the members present at this dinner. His tenure at Lehigh spanned over three decades, during which he served as department chair, Harold Chambers Senior Professor, and the university's vice provost for research.
The day after the dinner, Mercy was scheduled to discuss their reactions to the candidate with the interviewed president. However, a surprising turn of events occurred when Mercy had to meet with Mikhail Gorbachev at the Waldorf-Astoria instead.
Notably, Gorbachev, the former Soviet leader, had requested a meeting with Mercy. This meeting, undoubtedly, demonstrates Mercy's influential position in society, an anecdote that serves as a testament to his impact.
After leaving Lehigh, Williams became the president of the University of Alabama in Huntsville. His career has been primarily focused on engineering and materials science, making significant contributions in these fields.
As the Editor's Note mentions, readers can send their thoughts on this fascinating tale to [email protected]. This anecdote not only offers a glimpse into Lehigh's past but also serves as a reminder of the influential figures who have shaped the university's history.
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