History, Mission and Values

History of LUCES

The founding of this space in 2008 was inspired by previous student efforts with the Black Women’s Retreat. In the early years of LUCES, the program had a leadership conference, monthly gatherings, and a Grand Gala event which would involve over 50 folks. Since 2008 this program has grown significantly on Loyola’s campus and continues to be an enduring space that many students, staff, and faculty find valuable.

LUCES provides a space that centers W/POC to cultivate solidarity, scholarship, and leadership within an intersectional group of individuals.

LUCES focus on academic success, advocacy, mentorship, identity development, and the celebration of intersectional experiences. At its core, the purpose of LUCES is to create and maintain a sense of belonging though community building and vulnerability. Through the following principles, we hope all LUCES participants have the opportunity to:

• Build SOLIDARITY by creating a community of support through dialogue, political action, validation, a celebration of life experiences, and collaboration across individual members and allies.
• Build SCHOLARSHIP through empowering women to embrace their academic and personal potential inside and outside of the classroom through mentorship from staff, faculty, returning students, and alumni.
• Build LEADERSHIP by creating opportunities for W/POC to enhance their leadership potential through service, advocacy, and professional development.