Lehigh’s own Joseph R. Perella, ’64, has been announced as speaker for the university’s 148th commencement on May 23.
Perella, an investment banker and Lehigh trustee, is a founding chairman of Perella Weinberg Partners in New York City. His career has spanned more than 40 years and earned him the titles of “investment banking pioneer” and “Gentleman of Wall Street,” according to University Communications. In his years of experience, Perella has worked with multi-billion dollar mergers and acquisitions and dealt with strategic assignments for major companies in many industries around the world.
“His influence in the world of finance and investment banking is immeasurable, and he has improved countless lives through his philanthropic work,” President John Simon told University Communications. “I’m sure that our graduates and their families will be inspired by his extraordinarily successful career, as well as his accomplishments and legacy beyond Wall Street.”
The decision to select an alumnus was a conscious one, given the significance of Lehigh’s sesquicentennial year.
“I can think of no one more deserving to do this than Joe Perella, whose life and career have been guided by his strong values and commitment to excellence,” Simon said.
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