LUCA Connect: March 2026

Spring: College Dreams in Bloom

Because of supporters like you,

these big decisions feel possible...

Earlier this month, 64 LUCA Scholars from the Class of 2026 took an important step toward their future...together.

At our How to Choose a College workshop, students didn’t just review options; they began to imagine what’s truly possible for their lives.

They explored what makes a college the right “fit”, academically, financially, and personally. But more importantly, they had space to reflect: Who do I want to become? What kind of future am I building?

For first-generation students, this moment can feel overwhelming. There’s no roadmap at home. No one to say, “Here’s how you decide.” And thanks to a community that believes in them, they don’t have to figure it out alone.

LUCA Scholars attend Nueva Network Media event:

A Step into the Professional World of Media and Entertainment

This month, three LUCA Scholars joined the LUCA team and stepped into a space many had never imagined for themselves, Sony Hall in New York City, attending the Nueva Network Media Upfront.

They didn’t just observe, they experienced what it feels like to belong in professional spaces. They met industry leaders, explored careers in media and entertainment, and saw firsthand how stories are shaped and voices are amplified.

Moments like this expand what students believe is possible. And that shift? It changes everything.

One Scholar shared:

"It was a real eye-opener to see the scale of Nueva Network and how the media world operates behind the scenes. Being there with the LUCA team was a great experience, and I really appreciate you giving me the opportunity to shadow everyone and learn the ropes.



I’m looking forward to attending more LUCA events in the future and staying involved with the team."



-Xavier T.

A Day in the Life... and a Future Taking Shape

Meet Guadalupe, a LUCA Ambassador, and senior at Sacred Heart University. Guadalupe is studying Political Science and is driven by a clear goal: to become an immigration lawyer and advocate for her community.

Through LUCA's Ambassador Program, students like Guadalupe stay connected, share their experiences, and help strengthen the voice of our Scholar community.

Her path is not easy, but it's intentional. And it's a reminder of what can happen when students have the guidance and support to move forward with confidence.

Click here to watch Guadalupe's reel as she shares a glimpse into her daily life at Sacred Heart University—where she is turning her passion for advocacy into purpose.

Follow along as Guadalupe takes us inside her journey—balancing college life while pursuing her dreams for the future. 

MARCH SCHOLAR SPOTLIGHT: A Win that Reaches far Beyond one Student

In case you missed the news last week...

LUCA Scholar, Carlos Del Aguila didn't just compete at the Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair, he won first place in Behavioral and Social Sciences!

His research explored equity in NIH funding, asking big, important questions about who gets resources, and why.

Now, he's headed to the International Science and Engineering Fair this May. And this Fall, he will be heading to Harvard University where he will be starting as a college freshman.

This is an extraordinary achievement. But it's also something more. It's what happens when talent is matched with opportunity.

Congratulations Carlos for this extraordinary achievement! To read more on Carlos's achievement, click on the button below:

CORNELL WORKSHOP:

BUILDING SKILLS FOR COLLEGE AND LIFE

Last week, 17 LUCA Scholars participated in a virtual workshop on Study Strategies led in partnership with Cornell University.

Scholars learned practical tools, such as the study cycle and time management strategies, to help them stay on track academically. For many first-generation students, college brings new expectations and unfamiliar challenges. Workshops like this help ensure students are not just getting to college, but learning how to succeed once they're there.

The workshop featured Tim Lavis, Assistant Director of Cornell University’s Learning Strategies Center, alongside a panel of LUCA Scholars currently attending Cornell.



MEET THE LUCA TEAM:

Our video series continues as we highlight the dedicated team members who make LUCA's work possible. This time, tune in to listen to Dr. Pamela Jimenez, whose leadership shapes the programs that support LUCA Scholars throughout their college journey and beyond.

LUCA GOES TO ALBANY in honor of Women's History Month

In honor of Women's History Month, LUCA proudly attended Kathy Hochul’s Women’s History Month Reception at the historic New York State Executive Mansion in Albany.



LUCA CEO, Faith Ann Butcher, and Board Chair, Christine Fougeron Louvet, joined leaders from across Westchester County to celebrate the powerful contributions of women in public service and community leadership.

The reception offered a meaningful opportunity to connect with inspiring changemakers, including Andrea Stewart-Cousins, DaMia Harris-Madden of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Joanne Dunn of Youth Shelter of Westchester, and Cheryl Brannan of Sister to Sister International.



LUCA is proud to stand alongside leaders who are advancing opportunity, strengthening communities, and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

MARCH IS WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Women's History Month celebrates the women who lead, inspire, and create lasting change in our communities. At LUCA, this spirit lives in our mission to empower first-generation students to find their voice, pursue their dreams, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

By uplifting the next generation of Scholars—many inspired by the strength and example of the women in their lives—we continue building a future where opportunity and leadership are within reach for all.

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