Bold Promise, Brilliant Future

LUCIA PACHECO-PULIDO ’25, ’26 was eight years old when she watched her older sister graduate from St. Mary’s Academy. That year’s ceremony took place in UP’s Chiles Center, where Lucia made a bold prediction: “I’ll graduate here, too—not from high school, but from college.”

And she did.

Her path was clear—rooted in community. She first found that sense of belonging at St. Andrew Nativity School, then at St. Mary’s Academy. A few college visits only confirmed what she knew at age eight: University of Portland would be her next home.

On The Bluff, she dove into business studies, became an accounting major, and gained hands-on experience as a student employee in the controller’s office. Lucia’s drive and UP experience led to an internship at Deloitte, a “Big Four” global accounting firm, which quickly turned into a second internship and a postgraduate job offer—before she even began her master’s in finance.

While at Deloitte, a Portland partner recognized her name: Lucia was the recipient of a St. Mary’s scholarship created in memory of that partner’s mother. Their connection began long before they met.

Lucia credits her success to both determination and community. “I didn’t envision having everything lined up like this. I did the work to get here, but I did not do it by myself.” She feels a sense of gratitude to people like her controller’s office mentor Megan King, her professors, her family, and to those who have funded the scholarships that made her education possible at St. Andrew Nativity, St. Mary’s, and here at UP.

Now she’s making a new promise: “One day I hope to support other young people who, like me, have worried about how they’ll afford college.” Rooted in her commitment to strengthen community and lift others, Lucia’s resolve now extends to the next generation of those with hope to bring.

If Lucia’s story sparks something in you, reach out. Call Chris Shine at 503.943.7971 or email shine@up.edu to explore how your values can help shape the future.