Lehigh University appoints Matthew Lahey as its new Vice President and general legal counsel.
Matthew Lahey Joins Lehigh University as New General Counsel
Matthew Lahey, a seasoned legal professional with over two decades of experience in higher education law and regulatory compliance, is set to join Lehigh University as its new general counsel.
Lahey's career in higher education law is marked by his expertise in regulatory counseling, litigation defense, and internal investigations related to Title IX and antitrust issues. He has represented universities and colleges in complex litigation and regulatory proceedings, including Title IX claims involving allegations of sexual assault and harassment by faculty members.
Prior to his time at Oberlin College, where he most recently served as vice president, general counsel, and secretary, Lahey served for more than eight years as associate general counsel at the University of Notre Dame. During this period, he advised senior leadership on strategic initiatives and legal issues related to academic affairs, litigation, institutional policy, risk management, and compliance.
Before his time at Notre Dame, Lahey was a partner in the Labor & Employment group at an AmLaw 100 firm in Chicago, Illinois.
Lahey's achievements include successfully dismissing large-scale antitrust litigations and securing favorable outcomes in Title IX cases and federal investigations. Notable roles include leading investigations into sexual misconduct allegations at nationally ranked liberal arts colleges and public universities, and advising on athletic Title IX compliance issues.
Lehigh University President Joseph J. Helble '82 believes that Lahey's expertise and strategic approach make him well suited for the role. The search committee for the position, which included Joe Sterrett, Brett Ludwig, Ainsley Lamberton '07G, Kim Nimmo, Alex Radus, and was administratively supported by Melissa Blomkvist, partnered with Major, Lindsey & Africa to conduct a national search for the position.
Matthew Lahey earned a bachelor of business administration in finance from the University of Notre Dame and a juris doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law. His son, Tyler Lahey '25, is graduating from Lehigh University this week.
Throughout his 25-year legal career, Lahey has published frequently and given regular presentations on Higher Ed and Labor & Employment laws and trends. He has also served for a number of years on the Board of Directors for the Family Justice Center of St. Joseph County.
Lahey brings extensive experience in higher education law, institutional governance, Title IX, and employment matters to his new role at Lehigh University.
- Matthew Lahey's expertise in higher education law includes advising on institutional policy, risk management, and compliance, specifically related to Title IX and antitrust issues.
- In his previous role at Oberlin College, Lahey represented universities and colleges in complex litigation and regulatory proceedings, including Title IX claims involving health-related issues such as sexual assault and harassment by faculty members.
- Lahey's extensive experience in higher education law and his strategic approach make him well-suited for the role as general counsel at Lehigh University, where he will be dealing with matters such as education and self-development, politics, general news, health, research, and innovation.
- Matthew Lahey's career has seen him publish frequently and give regular presentations on Higher Ed and Labor & Employment laws and trends, indicating his commitment to innovation and education in these fields.
