  THE POWER OF GIVING BACK  Having our LUCA College Scholars and alumni return as volunteers for our FAFSA financial aid workshops underscores the strength and continuity of our LUCA community. Scholars and alumni bring invaluable insights, having navigated the same journey themselves. Their presence not only provides practical guidance to current students but also inspires them by showcasing what is possible through perseverance and support. This cycle of giving back fosters a legacy of empowerment, as Scholars contribute to the success of future generations. It highlights the importance of paying it forward, creating a network of shared knowledge, encouragement, and opportunity that strengthens our mission year after year. (From Left: Lissbeth L. – Fairfield University ’23, Luis R. -Binghamton University ’26, Kate H. – University of Rochester ’25, Kevin A. – Mercy University ’25)  COACH SPOTLIGHT Karen Baker is one of LUCA’s most dedicated college coaches. Since joining LUCA as a coach in 2020, Karen has mentored thirteen scholars who have been accepted and are attending various colleges and universities including Villanova, NYU, and most recently, her current scholar Emily Alvarez, was accepted and will be starting Columbia University in the fall! “I’m humbled by these very determined students and their families. They are so motivated and have so much to offer. Without the support of an organization like LUCA, they might not have this opportunity. I’m grateful to play a small part in their success.”  LONG LASTING RELATIONSHIPS  Two of our incredible volunteer coaches, Linda and Diane, shared a meaningful lunch with a group of LUCA Scholars. Each Scholar is navigating an extraordinary journey, both academically and personally. We are beyond proud to be part of their lives—what an honor to witness the growth of these exceptional young men and women! These relationships and connections are what make the LUCA mission and programs so unique. Thank you for serving as extraordinary Coaches and mentors to our Scholars. (From Left: Linda, Danirel G.- American U ‘28, Daniel S. – CWRU ‘27, Yesfreily R.- Bowdoin ‘27,  BECOME A COLLEGE COACH VOLUNTEER! Our incoming class of high school seniors for 2025-2026 is rapidly growing, and we’re seeking additional College Coaches to join us in supporting these students through their college admissions journey. College Coaches play a crucial role in guiding rising seniors through the college admissions process. Starting Spring of their junior year, coaches help Scholars with tasks such as: – building college lists As a coach, you have the ability and opportunity to change the life of a deserving Scholar in your community! Questions or need more information? Contact Cathy Maroney, Senior Manager, Partnerships & Volunteer Engagement at cmaroney@latinou.org or call 914-863-1390  SCHOLAR SPOTLIGHT  A SCHOLAR’S PATH TO COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY – EMILY A. “Your insights and feedback were invaluable in shaping my essays and ensuring that my unique story and experiences were effectively communicated. Your encouragement and expertise gave me the confidence to present my best self to the admissions committee, and I am now a proud part of Columbia! Thank you for your dedication and for believing in me. I am forever grateful, thankful, and every other adjective that expresses appreciation. Thank you for helping my dreams come true, I could not have achieved this without your help.” – Emily A. REGENERON HONORS: LUCA HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLAR – HAYLLI Y. Regeneron released its top 300 Society for Science cohort and we are thrilled to announce that LUCA Scholar, Haylli Y. from Ossining High School, has earned a spot on the list! Haylli’s project, Modeling Eccentricity and Spin-Precession in Binary Black Hole Gravitational Wave Events Using the Effective One-Body Method, showcases exceptional talent. Both Haylli and Ossining High School will receive $2,000 in recognition of this achievement. Great work, Haylli, we are so proud of you!  CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS  Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Thank you to our friends at Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union for your invaluable time and support at our recent FAFSA Boot Camp at Peekskill High School. Your efforts played a vital role in helping several students take crucial steps in their college journeys, creating a ripple of positive impact for their families as well. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in LUCA’s outreach efforts—our mission thrives because of dedicated people like you. From left: Our partners from Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union – Xiomara Solorzano, Roger Campos (Branch Manager), and Mario Jimenez, along with Stephanie Palacios, College Affordability Advisor, Latino U College Access. LUCA TEAM NEWS Congratulations to LUCA Team Member, Jailine Batista, College Access Manager, for her acceptance into NonProfit Westchester’s Emerging Leaders Class of 2025. This program is an 11-month professional development program that supports “emerging leaders” to grow their nonprofit knowledge, leadership skills, and expand their reach through networking and collaborative learning. Upon graduation, Jailine will understand the social and systemic issues addressed by Westchester’s nonprofit sector, become familiar with the mission and scope of other organizations within the county, develop relationships with 30 peers and new contacts in the nonprofit sector, be part of a growing network of talented and influential Emerging Leaders alumni, and be prepared for future leadership roles. We are so proud of you, Jailine!  TRANSFORMING LIVES & FULFILLING DREAMS  We believe in the transformative power of education and that all students deserve equitable access to opportunity that meets their potential. Please consider making a gift to LUCA in support of our Scholars and their dreams. LUCA | Latino U College Access     |
