CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Lehigh Valley Business (LVB) honored 40 of the region’s most promising young professionals at the 2024 Forty Under 40 Awards on Thursday night at DeSales University’s University Center.
The annual event recognizes individuals under 40 who are achieving career success and making meaningful contributions to the community.
“These honorees are professionally successful and understand that giving back is part of the mission,” said Michele Engle, senior account executive at BridgeTower Media, during her opening remarks. “They juggle busy jobs, education, and family and still find time to make a difference in the lives of others.”
The evening began with a networking reception at 4:30 p.m., featuring food stations and drinks.
It was followed by the awards celebration at 5:30 p.m. The ceremony concluded with photos and additional networking opportunities.
Recognizing the Sponsors
Engle acknowledged the event’s sponsors, Gross McGinley LLP, highlighting their commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders.
Thomas E. Reilly Jr., business services chair at Gross McGinley and a 2023 LVB Icon Honors Award honoree, addressed the crowd.
“It’s an honor to be here tonight and pay tribute to this group of fine young leaders,” Reilly said. “They are the group that we need to look to to be our leaders for the future.”
“Tonight’s award is not only honoring what you’ve accomplished but will serve as a constant reminder of what is expected of you in the future,” Reilly told the honorees.
He gave a special nod to his colleague. “I want to congratulate all of the Forty Under 40 winners tonight, most notably my partner, Zach Fowler at Gross McGinley. I always knew the kid would amount to something.”
Honoree Spotlights
Among the distinguished honorees was Monique Moreno, program officer for arts, culture, and creative economy at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation.
“Everything happens for a reason,” Moreno said when asked what advice she would give other young professionals. “It’s really easy to look around and see what other people are doing and downplay what you’re doing. But sometimes things need to happen first that maybe you weren’t expecting, but they’re going to cause you to grow.”
Moreno credited her education and scholarships with shaping her career. A William Allen High School graduate, she attended Cheyney University and received the Keystone and Bond-Hill scholarships.
“That was pivotal for me,” she said. “Over time, as the Lehigh Valley has grown, I’ve been able to bring a lot of that experience and education back here to help with my role now.”
Another honoree, Sandra Bieber, manager of operations and community development at Discover Lehigh Valley, emphasized the importance of community involvement.
“Put yourself out there,” Bieber advised other young professionals. “If you have good intentions and you want to support others with an open heart, it’s always going to come back as a blessing.”
Bieber expressed gratitude for her support system and the organizations that have aided her journey.
“I credit a lot to Discover Lehigh Valley, Community Action Lehigh Valley, and the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, as well as educational institutions like Northampton Community College and Kutztown University,” she said. “At the end of the day, God and my family have always been the backbone of my success.”
Angelo Fattore, assistant director for graduate adult admissions and partnership development at Moravian University, highlighted the value of networking and seizing opportunities.
“Getting involved is a big aspect—putting yourself out there, shaking someone’s hand, and introducing yourself,” Fattore said. “As you keep putting yourself out there, opportunities will come.”
Fattore noted Moravian University’s record enrollment this year, including 536 new first-time freshmen, an institutional record.
“We support access to education for corporate organizations and adult students,” he said. “We want to be part of the solution for the 40 million Americans who started a bachelor’s degree and did not finish.”
The event celebrated not just individual achievements but the collective future of the Lehigh Valley community.
“These individuals are the next generation of leaders, and we are thrilled to honor each of them,” Engle said.
About the Forty Under 40 Awards
The Forty Under 40 Awards recognize young professionals in the Lehigh Valley who demonstrate excellence in their careers and commitment to their community.
Honorees are selected by a panel of previous winners and leaders, focusing on professional accomplishments, community service, and the ability to inspire change.
For more information about the Forty Under 40 Awards and sponsorship opportunities, visit lvb.com.
