Allentown Chamber Celebrates Local Leaders, Legacy, and the Next Generation at Annual Awards Reception on June 17th!



ALLENTOWN, PA – May 27, 2026 – The Allentown Chamber of Commerce, a partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, is proud to present the 2026 Annual Awards Reception, returning on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the beautiful Moyer Forum at Muhlenberg College. This inspiring evening will bring together business leaders, community champions, educators, and residents to celebrate the people and organizations helping move Allentown forward through innovation, creativity, service, and commitment to community.

The reception will begin at 5:00 p.m., followed by the awards program from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy an evening of networking, community connection, light bites, and celebration while honoring this year’s outstanding award recipients and scholarship students.

This year, the Allentown Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the following honorees:

New Commitment Award: Mack Experience Center

The Mack Experience Center has become a dynamic addition to the Allentown community, creating an engaging space that celebrates innovation and the history of transportation. Their investment in Allentown reflects a strong commitment to education and inspiring the next generation.

Downtown Commitment Award: Archer Music Hall

Archer Music Hall has brought new energy to Downtown Allentown through live entertainment, cultural experiences, and community connection. As a growing destination for music and events, Archer Music Hall continues to strengthen the vibrancy of the downtown district while creating unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors.

Dedication Award (Milestone): Baum School of Art (100 Years)

For a century, Baum School of Art has enriched the Lehigh Valley through arts education, creativity, and accessibility to the arts for all ages. In celebration of their 100th anniversary, the Chamber proudly recognizes the organization’s longstanding dedication to cultivating artistic expression and building a stronger, more vibrant community through the power of the arts.

Good Neighbor Award: Jerdon Construction

Jerdon Construction is being honored for its continued commitment to strengthening the community through partnership, service, and investment in local initiatives. Their support of projects that improve quality of life throughout Allentown demonstrates what it truly means to be a strong community partner and neighbor.

“Across Allentown, we continue to see organizations, businesses, and individuals investing in the future of this community in meaningful ways,” said Jessica O’Donnell-Gower, Executive Vice President of Chambers of Commerce for the GLVCC. “This event is an opportunity to celebrate the people and institutions creating momentum, opening doors for future generations, and contributing to the continued growth and energy of Allentown. We are proud to recognize organizations and students whose dedication and impact are helping strengthen the community now and for years to come.”

A meaningful highlight of the evening will once again be the presentation of the Linda M. Anthony Scholarship Awards Presented by Preventive Measures through the Allentown Chamber of Commerce. Four exceptional graduating seniors from William Allen High School, Allentown Central Catholic High School, Louis E. Dieruff High School, and Bridgeview Academy will be recognized for their academic achievement, leadership, resilience, and commitment to their futures.

Scholarships range from $1,000 through the standard Linda M. Anthony Scholarship program and up to $2,000 for students pursuing careers in human services fields through support from the Preventive Measures Foundation. Scholarship applications remain open through the first week of June and are due by Wednesday, June 4, 2026. Allentown School District seniors can apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfQskPZHiXsT3eKUx1zh8evKkq6vaitmKI6UlC6QCcmb4CFSg/viewform?usp=publish-editor

Brittney Ciardi, Senior Vice President of Allentown Initiatives shared, “Each year, the Annual Awards Reception reminds us that the heart of Allentown is its people. The visionaries investing in our future, the organizations creating opportunity, and the young leaders preparing to carry our city forward. We are incredibly proud to honor this year’s award recipients and scholarship students whose impact reflects the very best of our community.”

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Time: Reception at 5:00 p.m. | Program 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Location: Moyer Forum at Muhlenberg College, 2400 Chew Street, Allentown, PA 18104

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are still available for those interested in joining this special evening of celebration, networking, and community impact.

Tickets and information are available here: Allentown Annual Awards Reception

Thank you to our sponsors:

Premier Sponsor: Capital Blue Cross

Presenting Scholarship Partner: Preventive Measures Foundation

Scholarship Supporters: Morton Brown Family Wealth, Linda M. Anthony Family

Center City Sponsors: Alvin H. Butz, City Center Group, Fitzpatrick Lentz & Bubba, Jerdon Construction, Lehigh Valley Health Network

Little Apple Sponsors: ESSA Bank, Gross McGinley LLP, Service Electric Business, SERVPRO Team Davis, St. Luke’s University Health Network

Hamilton District Sponsors: Buckno Liskicky & Company, Technicom

Information provided to TVL by:
Brittney Ciardi