CEO Internationally Recognized as CCCU’s Young Alumni of the Year

The Council for Christian Colleges and Universities- an organization which represents over 185 Christian institutions worldwide- has selected LM CEO Lucas Fonseca as the 2026 Young Alumni of the Year! 

On January 31st, Lucas spoke to university and college leaders at the organization’s International Forum in Dallas, Texas as he received the honor. The forum commemorated the CCCU’s 50th anniversary and gathered higher-education representatives from around the globe.

The title is awarded to an individual who graduated from a CCCU member institution within the past decade and who demonstrates ‘uncommon leadership or success’ as they reflect the values of Christian higher-education. 

Said Lucas of the experience, “Being recognized with this award is especially meaningful to me because it highlights the heart of our organization– to create opportunity, affirm dignity, and ignite hope, just as the Lord has done for each of us.” 

This journey began last October, when Lucas’s alma mater, Grace College, selected him as their 2025 Young Alumni of the Year. Following the award celebration, Grace’s selection committee put Lucas forward as their nominee for the CCCU’s award.  

“When I first arrived at Grace, everything felt so new and foreign — yet today, it feels like home,” Lucas wrote. “Grace has been such an important part of my journey in the U.S., shaping my faith, purpose, and leadership in ways I’ll always be grateful for.”

Our LM team could not be more excited for Lucas and proud of the headway we are making in research and language access under his leadership. Congratulations Lucas! 

The CCCU’s announcement can accessed at the following link: https://www.cccu.org/news-updates/2026-cccu-young-alumni-award-winner/