Genesis Beltre is one of LCTI’s schoolwide award winners for the Class of 2026.

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — The Outstanding Career & Technical Education Senior Award is Lehigh Career & Technical Institute’s most prestigious accolade. Students selected to receive it are the best of the best at LCTI.

One of this year’s two Outstanding Career & Technical Education Senior Award winners is Genesis Beltre, a William Allen High School student in LCTI’s Commercial Baking and Academic Center programs. Director of Curriculum & Instruction Kat Murray honored Genesis on Thursday (May 28, 2026) at PPL Center during the school’s annual Senior Recognition Night.

Commercial Baking teacher Janice Lucas describes Genesis as a leader and a helper in the classroom. She is an active SkillsUSA and FCCLA member who began competing early on with both student organizations. She has won multiple medals at SkillUSA districts. And as a junior, she placed at FCCLA states and qualified for nationals. This summer, Genesis will once again have an opportunity to attend the FCCLA National Conference.

The National Technical Honor Society member and Elmer Gates Enterprise Award winner always reflects on her competitions and learns from them, Lucas said. “She has a confidence that allows her to speak volumes with just her actions. I am very proud of Genesis and her willingness to learn, lead & achieve here at LCTI.”

The 18-year-old Allentown resident is never afraid of committing to a challenge, Lucas said, and this year that included three dual-enrollment courses through the Academic Center. Plus, she has been working in the bakery at Redner’s Markets for more than two years, honing the skills she needs to succeed in the culinary world. Genesis resident juggles school and work, capitalizing on every opportunity and finding new ways to succeed, Murray said.

Congratulations, Genesis! This is how we achieve! #weachieve