Da Vinci Science Center, Allentown, announced April 8 the winners of the 2025 STEAM Awards, recognizing exceptional students and educators who exemplify excellence in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Among them was Steckel Elementary School teacher Emily Lepore.

A third-grade teacher at Steckel Elementary, Lepore is a STEM leader in the Whitehall-Coplay School District. She created a successful after-school STEM program that reached more than 100 students and developed interactive tools like breakout box challenges to engage students and colleagues alike.

Other teacher award winners include Joshua Inman, Catasauqua High School, and Nicole Leskosky, William Allen High School.

The student winners are Grace Kirby, Northampton Area High School; DeAndre Bentinck, Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts; Jillian Halm, Freedom High School; Mia Napolitano, Freedom High School; and Gage Reichard, Louis E. Dieruff High School.

These honorees were celebrated at the Science Soiree April 25 at Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion, the science center’s annual gala highlighting innovation, creativity and community impact. The winners were formally recognized for their achievements. The event brings together community leaders, educators and science supporters to celebrate STEAM education and inspire the next generation of thinkers and doers.

The 2025 STEAM Award recipients represent a wide range of accomplishments and passions, from biomedical research and engineering innovation to equity in science education. Each recipient has demonstrated a deep commitment to learning, leadership and inspiring others through STEAM.

“These students and educators exemplify how curiosity, creativity and perseverance can shape not only individual futures, but the future of our entire region through STEAM,” said Lin Erickson, executive director and CEO of Da Vinci Science Center. “Their achievements are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion meets purpose. We’re proud to honor these changemakers whose ideas and innovations will help drive our community and the world forward.”