On Oct. 24 Latino U College Access (LUCA) in White Plains hosted its 12th annual Visiones Gala: Inspired by Purpose at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle, New York. The evening honored champions in education and community impact, including Cynthia Rivera Weissblum, president and CEO of EGF Accelerator, with the Founder’s Award; Peter and Karen Herrero, owners of New York Hospitality Group, with the Community Advocate Award; and Valley National Bank with the Corporate Partner Award. Raising over $500,000, the event will help fuel LUCA’s mission to make college dreams a reality for first-generation Latino students.
More than 250 guests were treated to a vibrant evening that featured a Latin-inspired menu, live music from Daniel Garcia and the Franco Pinna Trio, a silent and live auction, an inspiring awards program, and heartfelt testimonials from two brilliant LUCA Scholars.
“I extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our 12th annual Visiones Gala and honored this year’s outstanding leaders in advancing our mission and uplifting the Latino community,” said Shirley Acevedo Buontempo, LUCA founder and executive director. “Our work would not be possible without our supporters’ generosity, which empowers our scholars to courageously pursue their dreams and reach new heights through education.”
LUCA expresses its sincerest appreciation to the following sponsors and partners who contributed to the night’s success: Bloomberg, EGF Accelerator, Christine and Patrice Louvet, Shawn Edwards and Paulina Ribadeneyra, Danone North America, Mark Ellman, NY Hospitality Group, Valley National Bank, Morgan Stanley, PepsiCo, Scott Silverstein, Shirley and Anthony Buontempo, Julie DelValle Nunn and Gregory Nunn, Keating Electric, Clara and Antonio Roman, Lisa and Jonathan Schwartz, Cynthia and Larry Weissblum, Rodrigo Trelles, Zabala and Elvira Medus, AMC Networks, Lisa and Barry Bell, Randy Moore, Rafael and Nicole Perez, Aldo Polak and Ana Bluth, Rafael and Martha Palmino, Matthew Pollack, Carol Pouchie and Michael Graham, Donna and Kenneth Ray, Ellen Rothschild and Mitch Taube, and Dalia H. Valdes.
Latino U College Access is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering high-achieving, low-income Latino students to achieve their college dreams. Since 2012, LUCA has guided first-generation students and families through the college journey — from applications to financial aid and campus success. With mentorship and tailored support, LUCA helps students access, excel and graduate, creating lasting impact for individuals and communities.
