New Hope Celebrates announced that Rich Lucarini is joining its executive board as vice president of finance, a role previously held by NHC president Melissa Patterson. He will serve a two-year term.
“I am excited to join the New Hope Celebrates board to promote the history, events and culture that make New Hope so special,” said Lucarini. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to further the impactful work of this outstanding organization.”
“I am very excited to have Rich join our executive team,” said Patterson, who has been the vice president of finance since March 2019. “Not only does he have the perfect background and skill set for this role, but he has a passion for this community and making sure NHC’s mission continues on. I can’t wait to work with him.”
A graduate of The Pen Ryn School and Holy Ghost Prep, as well as spending summers as a camper and later counselor at Breezy Point Day Camp, Lucarini has always had a love for Bucks County. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Lucarini developed a special appreciation for the town of New Hope. He and his partner Bruce reside in Buckingham, where they enjoy gardening, bike rides on the Towpath Trail, gearing up for the next New Hope High Heel Drag Race, and participating in the New Hope/Lambertville LGBTQ Book Club.
Lucarini earned a B.S. with majors in accounting and business management information systems at Muhlenberg College. He began his career at Deloitte and has held various leadership positions in the financial services industry since. He is the director of finance operations for Ascensus, in addition to his role at NHC.
General board member applications are expected to open in early 2023. Announcements will be made on social media.
NHC’s board of directors drives activities and events that serve the diverse LGBTQ+ populace through the creation and promotion of marketing opportunities, educational activities and cultural events. One such event is the annual, week-long Pride celebration, held in May. Since 2003, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit has organized events that recognize the strong LGBTQ+ presence in the New Hope area and celebrated the history and culture of the scenic river town.
