Bethlehem Live Cam

Located at the Lehigh University, a private research university










Hosted by:
  • Lehigh University
  • 27 Memorial Drive West - Bethlehem
  • Pennsylvania 18015 - United States
  • (610) 758-3000
  • [email protected]
  • https://lehigh.edu/

History

Lehigh University is a private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States. It was founded in 1865 by industrialist Asa Packer, and it has since grown into a prestigious institution known for its strong academic programs and beautiful campus.

Here are some key features and aspects of Lehigh University:
  • Academic Reputation: Lehigh is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on research and innovation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, arts and sciences, health, and more.
  • Campus: The university's campus is situated on the slopes of South Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. The campus architecture blends historical buildings with modern facilities, creating a unique and picturesque environment for students.
  • Colleges and Schools: Lehigh University is organized into several colleges and schools, including the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science, the College of Business, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Health. Each of these colleges offers a diverse array of academic programs.
  • Engineering Excellence: Lehigh is particularly well-known for its engineering programs. The P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science has a strong reputation for producing innovative engineers and conducting cutting-edge research in various engineering fields.
  • Business School: The College of Business at Lehigh, known as the Lehigh Business School, offers programs in business, economics, and related fields. It is often recognized for its high-quality faculty, experiential learning opportunities, and strong ties to the business community.
  • Research Opportunities: The university places a significant emphasis on research and innovation. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on various research projects, contributing to advancements in their chosen fields.
  • Alumni Success: Lehigh University has a strong network of successful alumni who have made significant contributions to various industries, including business, technology, academia, and more.
  • Community Engagement: Lehigh University is actively engaged with the local community and often collaborates on projects and initiatives that benefit both the campus and the surrounding region.
  • Athletics: Lehigh's athletic teams are known as the Mountain Hawks. The university competes in NCAA Division I sports and has a strong tradition of athletics, particularly in sports like football, basketball, and wrestling.
  • Arts and Culture: The campus hosts a variety of cultural events, performances, and art exhibitions throughout the year, enriching the cultural experience of students and the community.

Lehigh University's commitment to academic excellence, research, and fostering a strong sense of community has solidified its reputation as a respected institution in the United States. It continues to attract students from diverse backgrounds who are eager to engage in rigorous academic pursuits while also enjoying a vibrant campus life.

Historical Facts

  • Founding: Lehigh University was founded in 1865 by Asa Packer, a prominent businessman and philanthropist who made his fortune in the coal and railroad industries. Packer's vision was to establish an institution that would provide practical education in engineering and related fields to support the industrial development of the region.
  • Early Years: Lehigh initially began as a technical school called the "Lehigh University of South Bethlehem." Its first classes were held in a single building known as the Packer Hall. The university offered programs in mining, metallurgy, engineering, and business.
  • Rapid Expansion: Lehigh University experienced rapid growth in its early years. In 1884, the university established the College of Engineering, which would later become the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science. By the turn of the century, Lehigh had expanded its curriculum to include additional scientific and liberal arts programs.
  • Move to South Mountain: In 1866, the university moved its campus from South Bethlehem to its current location on the slopes of South Mountain, providing a picturesque setting overlooking the city of Bethlehem. The move allowed for the expansion of the campus and the construction of new buildings.
  • P.C. Rossin's Legacy: In the 1930s, a significant donation from alumnus Peter C. Rossin enabled the university to enhance its engineering programs and research initiatives. The college of engineering was later named in his honor.
  • Coeducation: Lehigh University was historically an all-male institution. However, in 1971, the university became coeducational, admitting women as undergraduate students for the first time.
  • Arts and Sciences Expansion: Throughout the years, Lehigh expanded its academic offerings beyond its engineering and technical roots to include a comprehensive array of programs in arts, sciences, business, health, and humanities.
  • Notable Alumni: Lehigh University has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some examples include Lee Iacocca (former CEO of Chrysler Corporation), Daniel D'Aniello (co-founder of The Carlyle Group), and Martin Baron (former executive editor of The Washington Post).
  • Research and Innovation: Lehigh has a long history of research and innovation. The university has been involved in various research projects that have contributed to advancements in engineering, materials science, business, and other disciplines.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: In recent years, Lehigh has taken steps to prioritize sustainability and environmental initiatives. The university has implemented various programs to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly practices on campus.

These historical facts highlight Lehigh University's evolution from its founding as a technical school to its current status as a comprehensive research university known for its diverse academic offerings and contributions to various fields.

Academics

Lehigh University offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including engineering, business, arts and sciences, health, and more. The university is organized into several colleges and schools, each offering distinct programs and areas of study. Here's an overview of Lehigh University's academic offerings:

  • P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science: Known for its strong engineering programs, this college offers degrees in various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, materials science, and more. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and innovation.
  • College of Business: The College of Business offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, management, and other business-related fields. The college focuses on experiential learning, entrepreneurship, and fostering connections with the business community.
  • College of Arts and Sciences: This college provides a diverse range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Students can major in disciplines such as English, history, psychology, biology, chemistry, political science, and more.
  • College of Health: Lehigh's College of Health offers programs related to health, wellness, and healthcare management. This includes majors in health, medicine, and society; global studies; and other health-related fields.
  • P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science: Known for its strong engineering programs, this college offers degrees in various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, materials science, and more. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, research, and innovation.
  • College of Education: This college focuses on teacher education, counseling psychology, and educational leadership. It prepares students for careers in education, counseling, and administration.
  • Interdisciplinary Programs: Lehigh also offers various interdisciplinary programs that allow students to combine different areas of study. These programs include Environmental Studies, Integrated Business and Engineering, Data Science, Sustainable Development, and more.
  • Graduate Programs: In addition to undergraduate programs, Lehigh University offers a wide range of graduate and doctoral programs across various disciplines. These programs provide advanced education and research opportunities for students pursuing further academic and professional development.
  • Research Opportunities: Lehigh University places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects under the guidance of faculty members, contributing to advancements in various fields.
  • Study Abroad: Lehigh encourages students to explore global perspectives through its study abroad programs. Students can choose from a variety of international study opportunities to enhance their academic and cultural experiences.
  • Experiential Learning: Many programs at Lehigh incorporate experiential learning components, such as internships, co-op programs, community engagement, and research projects, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations.

Lehigh University's commitment to offering a diverse range of programs, its emphasis on research and hands-on learning, and its dedication to fostering well-rounded individuals contribute to its strong academic reputation. Students have the opportunity to tailor their education to their interests and career goals while benefitting from the university's supportive faculty and vibrant campus community.

Campus

Lehigh University's campus is situated on the slopes of South Mountain in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The campus offers a mix of historic and modern buildings, green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities. Here's an overview of what you can expect from Lehigh University's campus:

  • Scenic Setting: The campus is known for its picturesque location, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the city of Bethlehem. The mountainous backdrop and lush greenery create a serene and inviting atmosphere.
  • Historic and Modern Architecture: The campus features a blend of historic and modern architecture. Some of the original buildings from the university's founding in the 19th century are still in use, while newer facilities have been added over the years.
  • Packer Memorial Church: Packer Memorial Church is a prominent landmark on campus. Named after the university's founder, Asa Packer, the church serves as both a place of worship and a venue for various events and performances.
  • Linderman Library: Linderman Library is a notable building on campus, featuring impressive architecture and housing a diverse collection of books, research materials, and study spaces. It's a hub for academic resources and research activities.
  • Taylor College: Taylor College is another iconic building on campus, known for its stunning architecture. It houses classrooms, offices, and academic spaces.
  • Zoellner Arts Center: The Zoellner Arts Center is a hub for artistic and cultural events on campus. It includes performance spaces for music, theater, and dance productions, as well as art galleries.
  • Rauch Business Center: This modern facility is home to the College of Business. It houses classrooms, faculty offices, study areas, and state-of-the-art technology to support business education and research.
  • Athletic Facilities: Lehigh's athletic facilities include Goodman Stadium for football games, Stabler Arena for basketball and other indoor sports, and Ulrich Sports Complex for various outdoor sports. These facilities support the university's athletic programs.
  • Saucon Village: Saucon Village is a residential complex on campus, providing housing options for students. It includes apartment-style living arrangements, creating a comfortable and community-oriented living environment.
  • Green Spaces: The campus features well-maintained green spaces, courtyards, and outdoor seating areas where students can relax, study, or socialize.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Lehigh University is committed to sustainability. The campus includes environmentally friendly features such as energy-efficient buildings, recycling programs, and green initiatives.
  • Community Engagement: The campus is not only a place for academic pursuits but also a hub for community engagement and events. Lectures, performances, workshops, and cultural events contribute to a vibrant campus life.
  • Historical Landmarks: Throughout the campus, you'll find historical markers and landmarks that highlight the university's rich history and contributions to education.

Lehigh University's campus offers a blend of academic, cultural, and recreational spaces, providing a well-rounded environment for students to learn, grow, and connect. The combination of historic charm and modern facilities creates a unique and inviting atmosphere for the university community.