The Allentown Chamber of Commerce, a partner of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce (GLVCC) presented its 2026 Annual Awards Reception, June 17, Moyer Forum, Muhlenberg College.

The event brought 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 began at 5 p.m., followed by the awards program at 6 p.m.

The Allentown Chamber of Commerce recognized 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. Nicole Deemer, Director of Mack Experience Center, accepted the New Commitment Award.

Downtown Commitment Award: Archer Music Hall

Archer Music Hall has brought new energy to Downtown Allentown through concerts and cultural experiences. Savannah Rose, Manager of Archer Music Hall, accepted the 2026 Downtown Commitment Award

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. Shannon Fugate, Executive Director of The Baum School of Art, accepting the 2026 Dedication Award

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. Ron Jerdon, President of Jerdon Construction Services, accepting the 2026 Good Neighbor Award

“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,” O’Donnell-Gower said.

The Linda M. Anthony Scholarship Awards

The Linda M. Anthony Scholarship Awards Presented by Preventive Measures through the Allentown Chamber of Commerce were presented to graduating seniors from William Allen High School, Allentown Central Catholic High School, Louis E. Dieruff High School, and Bridgeview Academy. Accepting the awards were Alondra Marina, William Allen High School; Ma’Kayla Acabeo, Dieruff High School, and Natalia Herrera, Dieruff High School Awardee.

“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,” said Brittney Ciardi, Senior Vice President of Allentown Initiatives.

Sponsors of the event were:

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: Allentown Parking Authority, ESSA Bank, Gross McGinley LLP, Service Electric Business, SERVPRO Team Davis, St. Luke’s University Health Network

Hamilton District Sponsors: Bohler, Buckno Liskicky & Company, Technicom