Lehigh’s Mountaintop Hosts Community Picnic and “Fifth is First” Premiere

Community Gathers for Film Premiere and Picnic at Lehigh’s Mountaintop

On April 23, a vibrant community gathering unfolded at Lehigh University’s Mountaintop, drawing over 250 attendees, including students, faculty, staff, and local residents. The event combined a community picnic with the outdoor screening of a documentary titled “Fifth is First,” created by Holly Fasching, a Lehigh student from the class of 2026.

The event offered a lively atmosphere with live music from the student band Monet, USA, resonating across Building C Lawn, where guests enjoyed food, lawn games, and access to community resources. The evening showcased Fasching’s documentary, a capstone project exploring the Fifth Street Cross, a cyclocross and cross-country race rooted in community engagement in Emmaus.

Ruth Traldi, Mountaintop programs manager, emphasized the importance of such events in transforming Mountaintop into a dynamic and inclusive part of the campus. “Events like this help people see Mountaintop as a place to gather, engage in unique learning opportunities, connect and feel part of the community,” she stated.

This gathering marked the evolving role of Mountaintop, highlighting student creativity and community partnership, and continuing the tradition of successful Mountaintop picnics, which have consistently drawn large crowds. Mark Erickson, interim vice president for strategic planning and initiatives, remarked, “This event brought together a lot of what makes Mountaintop special—integrative student work, outdoor gathering and meaningful community partnership.”

The event aligned with Lehigh’s broader strategic vision to enhance the campus as a hub for learning and connection. This vision was recently underscored by the opening of Lehigh’s first public trail in Forest Park, further integrating the university with the surrounding natural environment.

Nancy Trainer, Mountaintop initiative lead and associate vice president for facilities and campus planning, noted the significance of the event in welcoming the broader Lehigh Valley community to explore the campus. The gathering also illustrated the shared interests in outdoor activities and storytelling among students, alumni, and local cycling enthusiasts.

Fasching’s documentary delved into the cultural and historical aspects of the Fifth Street Cross, portraying it as more than just a sport, but a source of community and belonging. “It’s about learning that life isn’t about how good you are at something, it’s about how you approach it, with intention, care and passion,” explained Fasching.

Gabe Lloyd, a promoter of the Fifth Street Cross, expressed his appreciation for the screening, describing it as a perfect Thursday night, filled with honor and excitement. Fasching’s work, supported by faculty mentorship and community collaboration, exemplifies the interdisciplinary learning that Lehigh University champions.

As the Mountaintop initiative progresses, Traldi envisions it as a testament to the power of combining academic strengths, physical resources, and community ties. The event offered a preview of Mountaintop as a burgeoning campus destination, animated by the partnerships and experiences that embody Lehigh’s strategic goals.

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