Lehigh University:

Alice and Richard Thall '55

In early March 2008 at the annual scholarship dinner celebration, Jessica Simberlund was one of the students looking forward to meeting her scholarship donors. The junior behavioral neuroscience major from Long Island has received the Richard and Alice Thall Scholarship for two years. “I’m indebted to the Thalls,” she said. “Without their generosity, I wouldn’t be here at Lehigh. The scholarship has given me a great opportunity to focus on my studies as I get ready for medical school.”

Alice and Richard Thall ’55 enjoyed the chance for one-on-one conversations with Jessica and Louis Magdon ’08, the second Thall Scholar. For the Thalls, who established their scholarship in the early 1990s, contributing to financial aid at Lehigh is a rewarding experience. “Alice and I strongly believe in helping bright students who may not have financial means. Kids have to be given a chance to succeed in life – and the students here are evidence of how that investment can pay off.”

Reflecting on the evening, Jessica Simberlund expressed how her donors had changed her life. “I’m inspired by how they’ve given back to Lehigh with this scholarship,” she said. “This whole evening shows how the Lehigh experience changes people, and it’s my hope that I can do the same someday.” 

For more information on the impact of scholarships, please visit www3.lehigh.edu/giving/campaign/scholarships.asp.