The Hugi Award Program recognizes individuals or groups in NWACC whose outstanding work in technology leadership, innovation, deployment, or support has provided substantial benefit for their institution and potentially other NWACC institutions. Lucas was nominated for his work in deploying technology to increase digital equity across the state of Oregon while elevating OSU’s research enterprise and opportunities for lifelong learning.

“Winning this award was very unexpected and it was only possible because of the great teams of people that I have the pleasure of working with. I greatly enjoy the work I'm doing, the people I get to work with, and it's my honor to serve the people living in the state of Oregon and our Tribal nations,” Lucas said on learning he won the award. 

As the Executive Director for UIT’s Outreach & Engagement, Lucas has been leading the Digital Extension & Inclusion initiative since 2022, with a focus on expanding OSU’s strategic engagement through Link Oregon; advocating and leading statewide efforts promoting digital equity and inclusion; and providing strategic leadership at OSU for systems and processes that support the university’s noncredit capabilities. Through his collaboration with Link Oregon, Oregon’s Tribal communities, and various state and community stakeholders, Lucas has made significant contributions toward achieving digital equity for Oregon and enabling civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning, and access to essential services.

Andrea Ballinger, OSU’s CIO, was one of the nominators. "Lucas's leadership in expanding digital equity across Oregon exemplifies the transformative power of technology in serving our communities. His work not only enhances OSU's research enterprise but also ensures that every Oregonian has the opportunity to engage in our digital society fully,” she said.

“Through his dedication to digital inclusion, Lucas has become a beacon of progress, bridging the digital divide and fostering a connected, empowered Oregon. His efforts reflect the very essence of servant leadership and stand as a testament to the impact one individual can have on the lives of many."

Lucas has continually leveraged OSU’s strong partnership with Link Oregon as well as the capabilities of UIT's Technical Solutions & Architecture team to build fiber connections and extend OSU’s research quality network to enable full digital participation for employees at branch experiment stations, PacWave, and Extension Offices statewide.

We are proud of Lucas’s achievements and his recognition by NWACC. He exemplifies the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and service that Joanne Hugi embodied and that NWACC celebrates. Please join us in congratulating Lucas as the recipient of this well-deserved award!