When 2019 OLSH graduate Luke Saftner entered the professional world, he had a goal that extended beyond his career: to find a cause worth championing. Raised by parents who instilled in him the importance of sharing his time, talents, and treasures with those in need, Saftner developed a strong foundation of compassion and service from an early age. As a child, he joined his family in serving organizations such as The Little Sisters of the Poor and the Felician ministry.
His time at OLSH further strengthened his commitment to “serving where needed.”
“OLSH played a large role in the person I am today,” Saftner said.
A Chi Rho leader, student-athlete, and Top 10 graduate, Saftner spent his four years at OLSH embracing opportunities to lead, grow in his faith, and serve others. After graduation, he attended the University of South Carolina, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. Guided by his commitment to service, Saftner volunteered and fundraised for JDRF, an organization that raises money for Type 1 Diabetes research. Once graduated, he continued to support both local and national charities including the McGuire Memorial Home and Folds of Honor.
Today, Saftner is a Private Client Advisor with CooksonPeirce, and a CFP® Professional. It was there that a colleague introduced him to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation by nominating him for Pittsburgh's 50 Finest - a prestigious program that recognizes emerging leaders who are committed to making a difference in their communities through fundraising and advocacy. The program culminates with a gala at the Rivers Casino on October 2nd.
Nicole White, a Client Advisor for CooksonPeirce, nominated Luke because she believed he embodies the qualities that Pittsburgh’s 50 Finest was created to recognize.
“He leads with both excellence and compassion. Luke is someone who genuinely cares about the people around him and consistently uses his time, talents, and influence to make a difference.”
As Saftner learned more about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, three things stood out to him: the importance of the mission, the organization's efficiency, and its commitment to ethical research practices. He found a cause that aligned with both his Catholic values and his desire to make a meaningful impact.
"When I was nominated for 50 Finest, I really wasn't familiar with the foundation because I didn't have a personal connection to cystic fibrosis," Saftner said. "After looking into CFF, not only was I moved by the cause itself but by the incredible efforts of the organization as well. Their commitment to ethical research and maximizing the effect of every dollar raised is more than inspiring and played a large role in my commitment to this cause. I'm extremely excited to be a part of this campaign and am asking you to support the incredible work being done to help eradicate cystic fibrosis and improve the lives of those affected by it."
Over the coming months, Saftner is working to raise $10,000 for the foundation as part of Pittsburgh's 50 Finest. Through his efforts, he hopes to help advance research, improve treatments, and bring hope to the thousands of individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis.
Luke asks that you consider joining him in supporting cystic fibrosis research and helping advance life-changing treatments and the search for a cure. Please consider making a donation and sharing his campaign with family, friends, and colleagues. Every gift, no matter the size, helps bring hope to those affected by cystic fibrosis and supports the groundbreaking work of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
To support Luke Saftner's Pittsburgh's 50 Finest campaign, visit: https://finest.cff.org/pittsburghfinest2026/saftner
Additionally, please consider attending or sponsoring the upcoming gala on October 2nd—an evening dedicated to raising awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis research. Sponsorship is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your support for this important cause while connecting with others who share a commitment to finding a cure.
To learn more about how you can support this mission, including donation options, gala tables and tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to Luke directly at [email protected].