April 10, 2024
Autism and Communication Center at CLU
Submitted by Damien Pena '15
Wonder why I’m donating on #CalLutheranCares Day? CLU is where I met the love of my life, Dr. Edlyn Pena. CLU is so interwoven into our love story and lives. Not only am I an alum, but it is a place where Edlyn gets to live her purpose in a role that she loves. CLU is a place where our amazing Autistic Warrior of a son, Diego, roams the campus and calls it, “his university”. About 6 years ago, Edlyn came to me and said, “I have an idea.” (This statement from my wife always gives me pause because I know something great is about to happen) She said she wanted to create a center to bring families together. She wanted to empower autistic students to communicate in any medium they use to amplify their voices and be heard. I am proud of my visionary wife, her amazing co founder, and CLU for contributing to the narrative of these amazing students. That is why I am donating to the Autism and Communication Center at CLU, to further our CLU LOVE STORY.