Lehigh University's Class of 1975 Gathers to Honor the Introduction of Equal Education Opportunities for Men and Women
Lehigh University Alumnae Celebrate 50th Anniversary and Honour Pioneering Classmates
Fifty years after graduating, the Class of 1975 from Lehigh University recently gathered to celebrate their milestone anniversary during Reunion Weekend, held from June 12-15, 2021. Among the notable alumnae was Ann (Schmoyer) Story '75, a trailblazer in many ways.
Story, who was the first female commissioned into the United States military from Lehigh University, was also the first female cadet to enroll in and complete the four-year ROTC program at the university, serving in both the Air Force and Army. She was also the first female commander of the Air Force ROTC's Arnold Air Society at Lehigh University.
In addition to her military achievements, Story was an active participant in sports during her time at the university. She was a member of the women's varsity field hockey and lacrosse teams, as well as the intramural softball and powder-puff football teams. The latter, a tradition that took place from 1971 through 1979, and also in 1981 and 1984, provided a sense of community for many women, including Story, as they faced the challenges of being among the first female undergraduate students at Lehigh University.
The Class of 1975 was the first to include female undergraduate students, a significant milestone in the university's history. Story, who felt a strong connection to Lehigh University from the start, was also one of the first co-captains of the women's tennis and volleyball teams.
Another remarkable alumna from the Class of 1975 is Karen Stuckey '75 '10P, who made history as the first female president of the Lehigh Alumni Association. During her time at Lehigh University, Stuckey also served as class treasurer.
The first female commander of the Air Force ROTC's Arnold Air Society in the 1970s was Carol A. Hannum. Meanwhile, Wendy Brouwer '75 was one of the first co-captains of the women's tennis and volleyball teams.
The Class of 1975 graduated in 2021, and during the 2025 Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony, Story participated and even had the honour of ringing the commencement bell. Nine members of the Class of 1975 reunited with Story during this ceremony, marking a poignant moment for all involved.
The contributions of these pioneering alumnae continue to inspire generations of Lehigh University students. Their stories serve as a testament to the spirit of perseverance, leadership, and community that is at the heart of the university's values.
