<p><span class="p-body">The <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-affairs.html" title="Master of Science in Global Affairs">MS in Global Affairs</a> program is full of students who are passionate about making a positive impact on the world. When they graduate from the program, many of them go on to pursue careers at the United Nations, nonprofit organizations, the State Department, and beyond.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Channon Lucas is a recent graduate whose passion for social good runs deep. We were thrilled to check in with her to learn more about her background, why she chose NYU, and what she's up to now.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Born and raised in Rochester, New York, Channon Lucas is the third of four children, growing up in an active household. &quot;Always on the go, I loved piano, dance, basketball, softball, and tennis,&quot; she recalls. Lucas's early passion for politics and world events can be traced back to the influence of the strong, community-minded women in her life, both at home and at school, where the Sisters of Saint Joseph instilled a devotion to &quot;loving one's neighbor without distinction.&quot; These experiences inspired her to dedicate her career to the nonprofit sector, focusing on social good.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Lucas continues to engage in a variety of activities, recently rediscovering her love for piano and tennis, and pushing herself outside her comfort zone with weightlifting and boxing. She also spends considerable time supporting the NY Yankees in the Bronx and relaxing at home with her five-year-old French Bulldog, Beignet.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Lucas wanted to shift her career from development at the Archdiocese of New York to international relations, which was the springboard to joining CGA. She was drawn to the MS in Global Affairs program for its focus on real-world practical experience rather than just theoretical concepts. The flexibility to attend as a part-time student while working full-time was crucial for her, allowing her to continue her professional growth and manage her student loans. Additionally, the prestige of an NYU degree and the robust alumni network were significant factors in her decision.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Balancing full-time work with evening classes, Lucas found the program's structure and supportive professors accommodating to her needs. &quot;My professors were incredibly supportive of my status and while it was definitely a busy time of my life, I loved the mental stimulation of the program,&quot; she says. The culture at CGA and the friendships she formed were highlights of her time as a student.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Today, Lucas is the chief administrative officer of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, the largest health-focused private foundation in New York State. She oversees the foundation's day-to-day operations, governance, and external relations, which include communications, community relations, and public policy teams. Her time at SPS and CGA nurtured her curiosity and critical thinking skills, which are essential in her multifaceted role. &quot;What SPS offered me is the same level of critical analysis, deliberation, and decision-making regardless of the challenge in front of me,&quot; she notes.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Navigating the complexities of identity politics in the workplace has been both a challenge and a source of strength for Lucas. Often being the only person of color, the only woman, or the youngest person in senior leadership, she has learned to offer her unique perspectives confidently. &quot;I prefer to offer not only my qualified thoughts on a topic, but also lean into points of view that others may not have considered,&quot; she explains. In doing so, she invites others to consider diverse perspectives and foster a more inclusive environment.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Lucas takes pride in her role in launching the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. Being the second employee, she has witnessed its growth from a small team to a 60+ member organization dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of low-income and underserved New Yorkers. &quot;Since inception, we have invested over $800 million in grants to over 2700 organizations, impacting countless lives throughout our great State,&quot; she proudly shares.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Looking ahead, Lucas is excited about expanding the foundation's focus on community engagement and thought leadership to make a healthier New York. She advises incoming students to remain flexible and curious, emphasizing the importance of engaging with various career paths and networking authentically</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Lucas's participation in the&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/study-globally/upcoming-global-field-intensives.html" title="Global Field Intensive (GFI)" target="_self">Global Field Intensive (GFI)</a>&nbsp;in Beijing and Shanghai was a transformative experience that shaped her understanding of global security. Like many alumni who have participated in a GFI, she highly recommends students take the opportunity to do one. Initially focused on cyber security, she adapted her thesis to explore food security, demonstrating her ability to remain flexible and make the most of her on-the-ground experiences. She still applies what she learned in Beijing and Shanghai to her current role.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Explore her professional contributions through the&nbsp;<a href="https://cabrinihealth.org/" title="Mother Cabrini Health Foundation" target="_blank">Mother Cabrini Health Foundation</a>. Lucas is one of many CGA alumni who are taking their places as leaders of a brighter future. Ready to take yours? Pursue an&nbsp;<a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-affairs.html" title="Master of Science in Global Affairs">MS in Global Affairs</a>&nbsp;today.</span></p>