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By David Ganz

Sean Pica, a local Westchester resident has spent most his career helping transform local businesses and communities, in addition to salvaging the lives of thousands of individuals, primarily young people, through an unflinching commitment to education. As President of Hudson Link for Higher Education, Sean exemplifies transformative leadership with the organization he helped found and led for many decades. Hudson Link forHigher Education, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is committed to rigorous educational standards, courses, and training to improve the lives of our most vulnerable residents and thereby improve Westchester’s neighborhoods and the businesses that serve them. By providing college education, life skills, and reentry support to those with criminal records, Hudson Link has succeeded to break the cycles of poverty.

Operating degree-granting programs in New York State, Hudson Link now graduates over 600 students annually, partnering with top institutions like Columbia and Vassar. Under Sean’s guidance, over 1,300 degrees have been awarded, and reentry support initiatives have flourished. These include transitional housing and job placement. The impact is clear: over 28 years, Hudson Link graduates have a remarkable 98% success rate! Local businesses in Westchester offer glowing testimonials to the Hudson Link graduates they’ve hired.

Consider the testimonial from Anthony Scarduzio of Scarduzio’s Deli & Catering, located at 97 Main St, Ossining, NY. “The arrival of Hudson Link's exceptional team at Scarduzio's Deli represents nothing short of a business revolution,” said Anthony. “This partnership has unleashed extraordinary results that go far beyond traditional employment metrics. What we're witnessing is a masterclass in human potential and strategic workforce development.” Mr. Scarduzio went on to add “These remarkable individuals have brought an unmatched level of dedication that transforms every aspect of my daily operations. Their resilience – forged through life experiences that would challenge even the most seasoned executives – translates into a work ethic that consistently exceeds expectations. Day after day, they demonstrate an inspiring commitment to excellence and personal development that energizes our entire workplace culture.”

As Anthony noted, “This collaboration stands as a powerful testament to what happens when visionary business leadership meets determined individuals ready to prove their worth. It's a compelling example of how strategic community partnerships can create win-win scenarios that benefit everyone involved – from the bottom line to the broader community fabric.”

In January of 1998 Hudson Link for Higher Education was founded in the wake of the elimination of Federal Pell and Tap grants when Sean and others approached religious and academic volunteers for help to fill the void. Through private donations and grants from foundations and religious institutions, Hudson Link created a post-secondary education program in conjunction with local colleges. The classrooms look the same as traditional college campuses: chalkboards, posters of famous authors on the walls, and the familiar all-in-one desk and chair sets. Today, with over 1,300 degrees awarded and more than 2,000 alumni making a difference in their communities, Hudson Link continues to reshape futures. Operating across New York State, offering case management and a continuing education initiative called the Finish Line program, Hudson Link empowers individuals to reintegrate as productive, tax-paying citizens, positively impacting their neighborhoods.

That view is whole heartedly endorsed by Olivia Weale, Co-Owner with her mother Denise of Dam Good English Muffins, located in the Lindy Building, 2 John Walsh Blvd, Peekskill, NY and whose name was inspired by the nearby New Croton Dam. Founded in 2018, the company produces hearty sourdough muffins. Olivia raved about Hudson Link declaring “Dam Good Muffins is absolutely thrilled to champion the extraordinary work that Hudson Link continues to accomplish throughout our community! We are genuinely inspired by witnessing Hudson Link graduates not just succeed, but truly flourish as they make meaningful, positive contributions that strengthen the very fabric of our neighborhoods. What makes this partnership particularly exciting is how it demonstrates the beautiful synergy that emerges when businesses, nonprofit organizations, and determined individuals come together with a shared vision. Hudson Link's innovative approach to education and reentry support has created pathways for people to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose, while simultaneously enriching our entire community with fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and unwavering determination.”

Ms. Weale went on to note “We couldn't be prouder to support an organization that believes so deeply in second chances and human potential. The success stories we witness daily remind us that when we invest in people and provide meaningful opportunities, the returns extend far beyond any individual—they strengthen families, revitalize neighborhoods, and create a more vibrant, inclusive community for all of us to enjoy.”

Hudson Link prides themselves on offering a continuum of educational services, so if students are not yet ready for college-level coursework, Hudson Link enrolls them in their year-long, pre-college program. The six- course College Prep curriculum is designed to build academic foundations, strengthen study skills, and prepare students for the rigor of college-level coursework. The educational requirements are no different than what the local colleges demand of their own students. Hudson Link students can be found every day learning their required courses of study, reading their textbooks, submitting written essays and articles, taking quizzes and midterm tests and final exams. Homework, homework and more homework! The Hudson Link students learn that education is their key, their only key to reentering society and having productive, satisfying lives. There are no excuses and Hudson Link students are required to successfully pass all their courses.

Thanks to the array of reentry services like "New Beginnings," a transitional housing initiative, Hudson link offers vital support for alumni navigating a new life. Equipped with essentials such as laptops and business attire from their boutique, graduates engage in monthly networking events, ensuring a smooth transition for alumni returning to society. By providing job-readiness programs and professional development opportunities, Hudson Link empowers each graduate with the tools needed to thrive. Joining forces with Hudson Link means embracing a brighter future and a second chance at a fulfilling life.

Sean Pica, as President, serves as an ambassador for Hudson Link, leveraging his invaluable expertise as an alumnus and former Executive Director and Board Emeritus. His role involves fortifying relationships with donors, supporters, and alumni while extending Hudson Link’s impact in New York and nationwide. But perhaps nowhere is Sean’s impact more powerful than on those young people fortunate enough to be admitted to Hudson Link Educational.

As Penelope Martin, a Hudson Link graduate recalled “After hearing Sean and his heartfelt speech about how transformative education was for him, I knew I had to get a degree. I remember starting night classes on a Thursday at Marymount Manhattan College through Hudson Link. I went on to become Hudson Link’s inside clerk and I worked for their computer operator. From there I was Hudson Link all the way. It was more than just being emboldened in their college program. It was like being part of a community. I graduated in 2022 with my bachelor’s and they nominated me as valedictorian. And I just felt like, why me? Like, I knew so many of my peers who were amazing students as well. And I just felt so honored and humbled. It was very emotional and empowering. And it was life changing, just to know that I had made this accomplishment with the support of Hudson Link. Truly, they helped me make this possible for myself.”

Penelope Martin’s success was enabled by Westchester business owners like Susanna DeSilva, owner of a driving school, who understand the value of Hudson Link. Ms. DeSilva observed “A degree is important but try getting a job if you don’t know how to drive.” As Ms. Martin noted “Susanna fully supports Hudson Link helping our alumni when they come home, for those who want to get their licenses. And it's more than just a job for her. She's personally invested in making sure that this is accomplishable for our alumni.” Ms. DeSilva was first introduced to Hudson Link for Higher Education through her work as a driving instructor. “I had the opportunity to teach members of the program how to drive and help prepare them for their road tests. Through this experience, I became familiar with Hudson Link’s mission and the impact it has on individuals working to rebuild their lives through education and personal growth. With time my family and I became part of the amazing Hudson Link family as well.”

Susanna went on to add “My partnership with Hudson Link for Higher Education has made a meaningful difference in Westchester by helping remove one of the biggest barriers to successful reentry, access to transportation. By teaching Hudson Link participants how to drive and preparing them to pass their road tests, I’ve been able to support individuals in gaining independence, securing employment, and meeting everyday responsibilities. This collaboration goes beyond driving skills. It contributes to building confidence, stability, and a sense of opportunity for individuals returning to the community. As more participants become licensed drivers, they are better positioned to maintain jobs, support their families, and stay positively engaged in society, which strengthens the overall community in Westchester.”

Hudson Link, growing in our own backyard and thanks to Sean Pica, making Westchester a better place to live and conduct business.

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