Weiner inducted into KU honor society

Kutztown University inducted 35 students into the Chi Omega Upsilon chapter of the Chi Sigma Iota Honor Society for counseling at its induction ceremony this spring, including Brianna Weiner of Bethlehem..

Chi Sigma Iota is an international honor society for counseling students, professional counselors and counselor educators. The society was established in 1985 by counseling professionals in the state of Ohio.

Local students among Da Vinci honorees

Da Vinci Science Center recently announced the winners of the 2025 STEAM Awards, recognizing exceptional students and educators who exemplify excellence in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. These honorees were celebrated at the Science Soirée, the Science Center’s annual gala April 25, highlighting innovation, creativity and community impact.

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.

2025 STEAM Student Award Winners:

• DeAndre Bentinck, Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts

• Jillian Halm, Freedom HS

• Grace Kirby, Northampton HS

• Mia Napolitano, Freedom HS

• Gage Reichard, Louis E. Dieruff HS

2025 STEAM Educator Award Winners:

• Joshua Inman, Catasauqua HS

• Emily Lepore, Steckel ES

• Nicole Leskosky, William Allen HS

“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 the 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.”

The Science Soirée took place April 25 at Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion, where 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.

Dream Boyd Theatre developer honored

The Bethlehem Chamber has awarded Plamen ‘Rocco’ Ayvazov, owner and developer of the Dream Boyd Theatre, the Downtown Vision Award in recognition of his transformative work reimagining the beloved Boyd Theatre – a historical icon in Bethlehem – and for his outstanding contributions to the revitalization and economic growth of the downtown district.

The award celebrates leaders who exemplify a forward-thinking approach to urban development, blending commercial innovation with community enrichment. Ayvazov’s vision for the Dream Boyd Theatre has not only preserved the legacy of the original Boyd, but reimagined it as a dynamic cultural, residential and entrepreneurial hub.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the Downtown Vision Award,” Ayvazov said. “Reviving the Boyd was about more than bricks and mortar, it was about preserving a piece of Bethlehem’s soul while looking toward the future.”

Ayvazov will officially receive this award at the Bethlehem Chamber’s annual Awards Ceremony June 3 at the Dream Boyd Theatre.

Local students inducted into EU society

On April 10, ESU’s Department of Political Science and Economics held the joint induction ceremony for the Iota Chi Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha (National Political Science Honor Society) and Omicron Delta Epsilon (International Honor Society of Economics).

Marla Gonzalez and Samantha Wertman, both of Bethlehem, were a part of the ceremony.