Luke Cicora joined the RISE Board of Directors in August 2021, inspired by a longstanding desire to give back to the community he calls home.
Luke moved to Saratoga Springs in 2000 for work, knowing no one in the area. Over the years, he built a life, friendships, and deep roots in the city. As he watched Saratoga grow and evolve, he felt a strong sense of gratitude for the opportunities and quality of life the community has given him. When his friend and fellow board member Jenna Smith invited him to join the RISE board, he didn’t hesitate. The timing felt right.
Prior to joining the RISE Board, Luke had attempted to volunteer locally but struggled to find the right opportunity. That experience stayed with him. Joining the RISE board became a meaningful way to finally fulfill his long-held goal of contributing to the community in a lasting way.
As a board member, Luke views his primary responsibility as providing thoughtful oversight. He carefully reviews materials, engages in discussion, and asks questions that help ensure the organization continues to operate strategically and effectively. He believes strong boards are built on diverse backgrounds and perspectives, where members can challenge ideas constructively and help prevent blind spots.
Luke brings more than 25 years of healthcare experience to the board. He currently works in oncology, partnering with medical teams around innovative cancer treatments. Earlier in his career, he spent four years representing an antipsychotic medication, working closely with psychiatrists and mental health professionals in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Those years had a profound impact on him. Through conversations with clinicians and firsthand exposure to mental health settings, Luke developed a deep appreciation for the complexity of psychiatric care and the humanity of both providers and patients. He often reflects on the empathy he learned during that time and the perspective it gave him on the importance of accessible, compassionate services.
In his oncology role today, Luke describes himself as someone who “helps the people who help people.” He works consultatively with physicians to identify appropriate treatment options, always with the goal of supporting better patient outcomes and preserving quality of life. That same mindset carries into his service at RISE—supporting the staff and leadership who work directly with residents and clients every day.
What inspires Luke most about RISE is hearing the stories of individuals who have rebuilt their lives. He is especially moved by the resilience, hope, and growth shared by residents at annual events and community gatherings. For him, those stories reinforce why strong community organizations matter—especially in a small city facing very real challenges.
Outside of RISE, Luke is deeply engaged in Saratoga’s west side community, proudly calling it “West Side Best Side.” He values neighborhood connection and supporting local businesses. He enjoys live music, concerts at SPAC, golfing, spending time on the lake with friends, and traveling to New York City for shows and events.
A lifelong music enthusiast, Luke is currently in the process of forming a band with friends, blending electronic elements, guitars, and percussion into a collaborative creative project. He also shares his home with his beloved dog, Giuseppe, a toy fox terrier who has become something of a neighborhood celebrity.
For Luke, community is everything. Whether through healthcare, music, neighborhood friendships, or board service, he believes in showing up, staying engaged, and helping create opportunities for others to thrive.