Kristen (Retzer) Lucena - Class of 1986

kristen lucena thumbKristen (Retzer) Lucena graduated in 1986 after an active high school career that included participation on the PV Ski Team, writing for PV’s student newspaper, the Saga and student government holding the office of Student Body President her senior year. Kristen attended USC graduating in 1990 with a double major in English and History and obtained her JD in 1993 from Santa Clara University School of Law. Kristen returned to Chico in 1993, beginning her legal career as a prosecutor for the Butte County District Attorney’s office. In 2006 Kristen was both elected and appointed Butte County Superior Court Judge. Kristen and her husband, Chico native Matt Lucena, have two children.

Ric Newton - Class of 1969

ric newton thumbRic Newton, a Chico native, graduated from Pleasant Valley High School in 1969. While at PV Ric was involved in student government where he served as Junior Class President. He was active in sports and was named All League in baseball. Ric received his AA degree from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science, a BA degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree with distinction in Social Science from Cal State University, Chico where he is an adjunct professor. Ric is co-owner of Newton-Bracewell Funeral Homes, serving over 500 families a year. He is president of the board of directors for the Peg Taylor Center for Adult Day Health Care, a past president of the California Funeral Directors Association, Work Training Center, Chico Breakfast Lions Club, Chico Sunrise Rotary Club, and Salvation Army Advisory Board. He and his wife Colene have three daughters, Shawntel, Destiny and Vanessa.