Lucas is from the colonial town, Ligonier, Pennsylvania. He is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling to become a therapist given his ongoing passion for working with youth.

Prior to becoming the Assistant Program Director, Lucas served as a Lead Residential Coach, Wellness Coordinator, and Program Manager at Black Mountain Academy. Before joining our team, Lucas was a master-level field instructor at a local therapeutic wilderness program. During his time in the field, Lucas honed his ability to balance the art of holding space for students as they learned to process and communicate their feelings while also holding appropriate boundaries.

At Black Mountain Academy, Lucas is well known for his ability to form relationships with our students through fun and impactful weekly programming as well as fun adventures like skiing or camping. When asked how he relates so easily to them, he states, “As a student, I struggled in school for many years. Classes were hard and socializing was even harder. Like many of our students, I needed some extra avenues in order to find my way. By the end of high school – especially by the end of college, I had achieved honors in my education but most importantly had led an active social life. The reason for this success is the fact that I pushed past my comfort zone and made healthy routines. I want to do the same with our BMA students.”

When not adventuring around the Asheville area with the students, Lucas enjoys spending time trail running throughout the beautiful backcountry, working out, reading a good book, or exploring new hobbies with friends – many of which he then shares with our students and staff.