Three Bethlehem area students were among the 13 recognized at the Lehigh Valley chapter of Travelers Protective Association of America Post L’s annual Altruism Award banquet in April at the Northampton Banquet and Event Center in Northampton.

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, setting the tone for the stories to come later in the evening.

TPA Post L Secretary and Director of the Altruism Program Patricia Palencar welcomed Alyssa Knadler of Liberty HS to the front of the room to accept her award. School faculty staff had the opportunity to highlight the honored student in a short, personalized speech.

Alyssa was nominated by her teacher and yearbook adviser, Lisa Gillard, and her school counselor, Heather Walke. She was nominated because of her extraordinary effort in school activities and academics.

Alyssa is the co-editor-in-chief and photography editor of the yearbook, the layout editor for the Liberty Life newspaper, and the president of the video production club. She also finds time to participate in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science Club, National Honor Society and the Angel 34 club.

After high school, Alyssa will be attending a four-year university and plans to study astrophysics.

Alayna Bergman of Bethlehem Catholic was also awarded the TPA Altruism Award. Dean of Students Shane Schneider introduced her and said that Bergman is “an inspiration to all ‘’ for her exceptional leadership skills.

Alayna participates in various clubs and activities. She is the National Honor Society’s president, the field hockey team captain, and a class representative for the student council. She also makes time to participate in the prom/homecoming committee, is a peer listener and tutor, works with Model UN, and is a Hawk Ambassador.

Schneider said Alayna has left a mark on Bethlehem Catholic and is a “beacon of light” that “radiates positivity.” After high school, Alayna plans to study elementary education and will continue working as a camp counselor this summer. She aspires to help young kids learn and grow.

Patricia Palencar also invited Julia Ruhf of Freedom HS to the front, who had been nominated by the director of the school’s theater program, Justin Amann. He described Julia as having a “heart of gold” and flourishing under pressure.

Julia participates in the theater program and is the dance captain. Amman said Julia is a “terrific actor and dancer” and poised for success. Although Julia tore her meniscus, she wasted no time getting back into dance, proving she is dedicated and capable of rising above all challenges.

After graduating, Julia will attend the University of Delaware, majoring in kinesiology with a minor in dance.

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.

Patricia Palencar and the TPA Post L Board of Directors planned the ceremony.