Alondra Ayala, a graduate of Whitehall High School in the Class of 2024, 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 Northampton Banquet and Event Center, 1601 Laubach Ave., April 18.

The 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 embodied altruism, setting the tone for the stories faculty and staff shared for each recipient throughout the evening.

Patricia Palencar, TPA Post L secretary and director of the Altruism Award program, invited Ayala and her speaker to the front of the room to accept her award.

WHS counselor Logan Kendy nominated Ayala for the award. She described her as a “wonderful example” who puts others first and has an outstanding commitment to service.

Ayala served as president of Student Council. She was a member of the Interact Club and excelled academically. Outside the classroom, she made time for clubs and varsity volleyball, Kendy said.

With a great interest in civic engagement, Ayala established a voting registration drive at WHS and planned to work the polls during the primary election. She is also the founding member of the Aevidum Club, which encourages all members to have their friends’ backs, creating a culture of care and advocacy. Ayala also served as the student representative on Whitehall-Coplay School Board.

Her commitment to her community has been unwavering throughout her four years at WHS. Her efforts two years ago, when she collaborated with Gockley, Steckel and Zephyr elementary schools to raise an impressive $21,000 for the Four Diamonds Foundation for cancer research, stands as a testament to her dedication and service, it was mentioned.

During her speech, Kendy said Ayala would leave a “legacy of service” at WHS. The two smiled while holding back tears, embracing in a hug after the speech.

As she prepares to embark on her academic journey, Ayala has set her sights on institutions such as Boston University, University of Southern California and Washington University in St. Louis. She will be studying political science on a prelaw track, with aspirations of becoming an immigration or human rights attorney.

All the students were congratulated on the honor, and Palencar and the board of directors were thanked for the extensive planning that goes into each ceremony. It was mentioned the students honored left a lasting mark on their high schools and have paved a new road for students to follow.

Post L was established in 1882 and benefited traveling salesmen nationwide. Now, the fraternal benefit society serves and protects those who are considered preferred risks. The organization is responsible for promoting the Absent Voter Act-1916 Absentee Ballot System and created the Watch That Child bumper stickers for vehicles.