The Austin Independent School District recognized outgoing Trustee Noelita Lugo and ceremonially swore in Fernando Lucas de Urioste as the districtnewly elected trustee for At-Large Position 8 during the Jan. 16 information session.

Outgoing remarks and tribute
Trustee Noelita Lugo began the meeting with remarks and a poem reflecting on her four years on the board. She described challenges and milestones including the pandemic, mental-health needs, a long-range plan, and a historic $2 billion bond. "Kids can't wait," Lugo said, urging continued attention to student outcomes and equity. Trustees and Superintendent Matias Segura responded with personal tributes noting Lugos community-rooted approach and role in supporting the superintendent and district initiatives.

Swearing-in of new trustee
Fernando Lucas de Urioste was ceremonially sworn in by Rachel Stone. After taking the oath of office, Trustee de Urioste thanked community members and trustees and acknowledged the responsibility of the seat. Two recorded public comments preceded the swearing-in: David Smith, CEO of United Way for Greater Austin, praised the district's partnership with United Way around the Pease Elementary site; Minda Anderson, an AISD teacher librarian, recorded remarks welcoming de Urioste and noting librarian collaboration with families.

Why it matters
The formal turnover at At-Large Position 8 closes a local electoral process (the board referenced a 2024 runoff election that filled the seat) and is a ceremonial transition the board typically marks at the first meeting after certification. Trustee Lugo's remarks reiterated district themes: equity, post-pandemic instructional recovery, and the role of community voices in governance.

What trustees said
Trustees offered short tributes highlighting Lugo's community roots, mentorship and the local campaigns that brought her to the board. Superintendent Segura called Lugo "an amazing human" and credited her with pushing the district to better serve students. Trustees welcomed Trustee de Urioste and invited public comment and community engagement as he begins his service.

Speakers quoted in this article are drawn from the meeting transcript and include Trustee Noelita Lugo, Superintendent Matias Segura, Rachel Stone (community advocate who administered the oath), Fernando Lucas de Urioste (new trustee), David Smith (United Way CEO) and Minda Anderson (teacher librarian).