Farrington receives Community Partner Award

	Gregory Farrington

Lehigh President Gregory Farrington’s efforts to revitalize Bethlehem’s South Side earned him a Community Partner Award from the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Farrington, who has worked with the city of Bethlehem to strengthen the economic vitality of the South Side over the past eight years, received the award at the chamber’s annual economic outlook meeting in late January.
“The Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce is the second largest chamber in the state and one of the top chambers in the country. To be recognized by such an accomplished and prestigious body is a great honor,” Farrington says.
“The Lehigh Valley is privileged to be the beneficiary of the good works of Dr. Farrington. His commitment to Lehigh University, the city of Bethlehem and the entire Lehigh Valley is remarkable,” says Tony Iannelli, president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Farrington was quick to point out that he was just one of many individuals who have worked together to revitalize Bethlehem’s South Side. He lauded former Bethlehem mayor Don Cunningham and current mayor John Callahan for their leadership and vision.
“No conversation would be complete without mentioning (Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Bethlehem) Tony Hanna, a man who knows everything that needs knowing…as well as how to get things done,” Farrington says.
Farrington also singled out John Saraceno and Sis Obed-Torres Cordero, calling them “two dedicated individuals who provide much of the energy and leadership we have today in South Bethlehem.”
“What each of these people share—and the reason I have been drawn to them—is true vision, a love of the South Side, and the ability and desire to partner. For that, I am thankful,” Farrington says.
Community Partner Awards, which are given either to people or organizations, were also presented to Good Shepherd Rehabilitation of Allentown; River Grille Restaurant in Easton; Francee Fuller, marketing manager at engineering firm Barry Isett & Associates; and Lanita Lum, regional manager of The Saucon News .
The beautiful crystal awards that all the honorees received were designed by Peter Yenawine from Crystal Signatures in Bethlehem.
--Bill Doherty