Leighna Takacs of Salisbury High School was honored with the Lehigh Valley chapter of the Travelers Protective Association of America Post L’s Altruism Award.

A banquet and ceremony was held at the Northampton Banquet and Event Center, 1601 Laubach Ave., April 18.

The TPA’s Altruism Award is an opportunity for high schools throughout the Lehigh Valley to honor select students who exemplify an altruistic spirit through commitment and service to others.

TPA Post L President Donald D. Schwartz opened the ceremony with a speech discussing his deployment in the Vietnam War and life after returning home.

His commitment to the country showcased an example of service to others and embodying altruism - setting the tone for the stories faculty and staff shared for each recipient throughout the evening.

Leighna was nominated for the TPA Altruism Award by Salisbury teacher Anne Ruiz for her undeniable commitment to serving others. Leighna’s guidance counselor, Allison Moyer, described Leigna as a “shining example” and someone who likes helping others, “especially on their worst days.”

Leighna is a junior firefighter for the Eastern Salisbury Fire Department alongside both of her parents. She spends most of her free time there, serving as the air room manager and quartermaster while assisting on active calls.

Aside from her academics in high school, Leighna has been taking classes to become a certified EMT and she will finish courses just a few days after high school graduation.

Moyer described Leighna as someone who “truly embodies” the principle of altruism, as she has already participated in 57 service calls with the fire department in 2024.

After high school, Leighna will continue to serve her Salisbury community as an EMT and has thoughts of entering the emergency medical field.

The room was astonished by the remarkable commitment achieved by such a young individual.

Leighna is an inspiration to all and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on her high school and the community of Salisbury.

Congratulations to all students who were honored during the ceremony and special thanks to Patricia Palencar and the TPA Post L board of directors for the extensive planning that goes into each ceremony.

The TPA Post L was established in 1882 and benefited traveling salesmen nationwide. Now, the fraternal benefit society serves and protects those considered preferred risks. The organization is responsible for creating CHAD Stickers (Children Have An Identity), DNA collection kits and the Officer Ollie Safety Program.