Spring is an exciting time for high school seniors. Anticipating graduation and planning future endeavors fill much of their time. It is also time for recognition and awards for outstanding students.

Travelers Protective Association is an organization that has its annual Altruism Awards presentation and banquet each spring, honoring high school seniors who exemplify exceptional academics, extracurricular activities and altruism. Ten high school seniors were chosen this year from the Lehigh Valley, among them Northampton Area High School’s Joseph Tomaro. The event was held April 10 at Northampton Banquet and Event Center, 1601 Laubach Ave.

Tomaro could not be present to accept his award as he was playing in a tennis tournament. Speaking on his behalf was NAHS Assistant Principal Randy Burger, who said Tomaro excelled in scholastics, athletics and community service. Tomaro has not yet selected a college, but he will be studying engineering.

TPA of America is one of the oldest fraternal service clubs in the United States. The organization was originally created in 1882 by and for traveling salesmen, though today, it is open to other occupations.