The Office of State Relations develops strong alliances with elected officials in the Pennsylvania General Assembly and state agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The staff actively works to increase the University's research, education and economic development funding, represent the University's regulatory and legislative interests and enhance Lehigh's statewide reputation. An active State Relations Program helps Lehigh University's ability to drive and contribute to the economic growth of the Lehigh Valley and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.