News

Farewell letter from our Executive Director, Jeff Swiryn, and the introduction of our newest team member

“For the past 18 months, we have been forced to live with an unprecedented level of uncertainty and doubt. Uncertainty surrounding our professional commitments, doubts about our personal lives and safety, and even about the fundamental systems in our world and how we interact with our communities and the environment.

In the Luksic Scholars Foundation, we have tried to maintain a pragmatic approach to these uncertainties. As you know, we had to cancel and postpone many programs and activities, but we also added two team members and created new scholarships at Stanford, London School of Economics, MIT, and Sciences Po, in addition to launching our first Fund to provide more support to the network. 

On a personal level, I have certainly not been immune to the uncertainty and unpredictability! My first baby was born three hours before the end of 2020, I earned an MBA from MIT, and now with mixed emotions I am stepping down as Executive Director of the Luksic Scholars Foundation.

I am extremely proud of the work that we have done as a team, especially since the start of 2020. I have had the unforgettable opportunity and privilege to lead this organization from its organic roots to the consolidated foundation that it is now, thanks to the foresight of the Luksic family, the hard work of my team, and most importantly, thanks to the constant dedication and engagement from you – the Luksic Scholars.

One thing we are now certain of is that uncertainty is a given. But I am confident that the Luksic Scholars network and the foundation are built upon fundamental values and supported by the people that will allow this organization to thrive and continue to develop in exciting ways under new leadership. 

The time has come for a refreshed vision and direction. On that note, I am thrilled to introduce Isabella Luksic as the next Executive Director of the Luksic Scholars Foundation. Isabella has helped lead the transformation of the Luksic Foundation during the past year and has worked with us behind the scenes consistently during this difficult year. Please join me in welcoming her!

Thank you to all the members of this network for your support and contributions over the years. I look forward to keeping in touch personally and to seeing what happens next in this special community!
With gratitude,
Jeff Swiryn.”