LUCA Connect: February 2026

Scholar Spotlight: Your Support, His Future—

Watch the Moment LUCA Scholar Learns He’s UPenn-Bound

Earlier this month, LUCA Scholar Jonathan P. opened his college decision, and learned he had been accepted to the University of Pennsylvania!



Jonathan, a senior at Sleepy Hollow High School, will begin his freshman year at UPenn this fall. His achievement reflects years of hard work, determination, and the courage it takes to pursue a path no one in his family has traveled before. Moments like this don’t happen in isolation, they happen because a community believes in students, stands beside them, and helps turn college dreams into real opportunities.

Your support breaks barriers, creates opportunities and makes college dreams come true, making moments like this possible!  

IT'S COLLEGE APPLICATION SEASON!

LUCA Scholars and their College Coaches have been hard at work during this pivotal season- finalizing college applications and eagerly awaiting decisions!

This process can be both exciting yet overwhelming as each student’s college preferences, readiness, and financial affordability are all important considerations in the decision making process. 

But one thing is certain- your support allows the LUCA team to stand by each Scholar as they make the best decision for themselves, their family, and their future.

PADRES CHARLAS/ "Parent Talks"

LUCA recently hosted a Padres Charla (“Parents Talk”) session at our office, bringing 22 families together for an engaging conversation on saving and paying for college. 

The program featured Gina Pinas from the New York State Comptroller’s Office, who presented on the NY 529 College Savings Plan, and Rayna Landa from the Hebrew Free Loan Society, who shared interest-free loan resources for education expenses. Families participated actively—asking thoughtful, personal questions and continuing conversations over coffee and pastries—fostering a warm and inviting setting for families. Beyond these expert presentations, families had the opportunity to ask questions and receive guidance—turning information into actionable next steps to make college not just possible, but financially attainable for families.

“The information about loans was very helpful. We are grateful to LUCA and the programs presented for guiding and educating us about the resources available so that our children can continue their studies. We greatly value the availability to answer our questions and provide us with support.”



-Blanca A., Class of 2026 Scholar Parent

WELCOME & BLESS

This month, LUCA gathered in community to honor our founder, Shirley Acevedo Buontempo, and to welcome Faith Ann Butcher as our new Chief Executive Officer, a meaningful moment that marked both gratitude for where we’ve been and confidence in where we’re going.

For our Scholars, this transition represents continuity of care and commitment. The mentorship, guidance, and steady support they rely on remain at the heart of LUCA’s work, ensuring that first-generation students continue to have someone walking beside them as they navigate college and beyond.



For our supporters, it was a powerful reminder that LUCA’s mission is built to last. Shirley’s vision laid the foundation for hundreds of students to access and succeed in college, and under Faith’s leadership, that impact will continue to grow. Your belief in this work helps ensure that the next generation of Scholars has the same opportunities, encouragement, and pathways to brilliance.

Honoring Black History Month:

Advancing Education, Expanding Opportunity

February invites us to honor the enduring contributions of Black and African American leaders, educators, and students who have transformed education in the United States.

From the courage of families who challenged segregation to the visionaries who built historically Black colleges and universities, their legacy reshaped our nation’s schools and expanded who has access to knowledge, dignity, and opportunity.

At LUCA, we are inspired by this legacy every day. The pursuit of educational equity—so that all students, regardless of background, can realize their college dreams—stands on the shoulders of those who fought to open classroom doors and affirm that education is a right, not a privilege.

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