Graphic Communications Student Named Rising Star by Leadership Niagara

Lucas Kates, a senior in the Graphic Communications Program at the Niagara Career and Technical Education Center and a Lewiston-Porter student who attends the Niagara Academy, was recognized for being a Rising Star by Leadership Niagara.  “When our adult class was given a tour of the Niagara Academy by Lucas, they immediately fell in love with his charm and intelligence,” says Leadership Niagara Assistant Director Tasha Villani.  “The class decided to create an award at their graduation ceremony to honor Lucas called the Rising Star Award.”

“Since I am the first one honored with this award, I felt humbled,” says Lucas.  “It is an honor that I will be the beginning of a future legacy of other rising stars.” At the ceremony at the Rivera Theatre, Lucas talked about how learning about his autism spectrum disorder was akin to Clark Kent learning that he was not human.  “He didn’t become Superman right away, he had to look at himself and question everything.”  He talked about how each experience he has had has helped him to understand who he truly is and how grateful he is to his two counselors at the Niagara Academy, Mrs. Antonacci and Ms. Henson for helping him along the way.  “He presented a powerful and moving speech,” says Ms. Villani.  “He received a standing ovation and many people had tears in their eyes when he was done.  We are proud to have him in our 2016 Class of LYNC.”

Lucas is hoping to attend R.I.T.’s School of Film and Animation.  “The world of film is like a more tangible world of dreams and dreams lift us up to transform ourselves into something beyond our initial forms,” he says.  “You could say that I plan to make my inner “star” continue to rise.”

lucas and parents

Lucas Kates (Lewiston Porter) with his parents David and Donna Kates.

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