After 32 years as the President of A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, Dan Ascher handed over the reins to Lucy Zhang this past December. No stranger to the company, for the past two years, Lucy, who is the leader of SetSail Global LLC, has been a business consultant for A+. As Lucy becomes part of the A+’s next chapter, she brings with her a wealth of experience, a fresh perspective, and a commitment to supporting our students and their tutors. We recently chatted with Lucy to learn more about her background, her inspirations, and her plans for the future.
A+: To start, tell us about yourself.
LUCY: I grew up in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, and attended North Penn High School. A daughter of immigrants, I’ve always had a passion for education and learning, which ultimately shaped my career path.
When she’s not working, Lucy finds enjoyment in a range of activities. “During the pandemic, I spent my time cooking, puzzling, and playing chess. When there’s not a pandemic, I love traveling, trying new foods, and salsa dancing.”
A+: You said you have always had a passion for education. So, what inspired you to focus on tutoring specifically?
LUCY: My parents instilled in me the importance of education from an early age. My father grew up in a rural village and ultimately made his way to the United States through academic achievement. I’ve always loved school and learning, and I ultimately made my way to Harvard and UPenn. While pursuing my graduate degree at Penn, I started my first tutoring company, SetSail, with a classmate.
A+: How did you go from running your own tutoring company to working with, and ultimately taking over, A+ Test Prep and Tutoring?
LUCY: After running and growing SetSail, I connected with Dan, who founded A+ over three decades ago. I initially joined as a business consultant for A+; my team helped streamline operations and provide analytics for data-driven decisions. When the opportunity arose to purchase the company, I knew it was a perfect fit for my passion for education and my interest in building sustainable and impactful organizations.
A+: As someone with a passion for education, what is special about tutoring? What makes it important, and what factors make it work successfully?
LUCY: Tutoring provides personalized support that is often missing in traditional classroom settings. It allows students to learn at their own pace, build confidence, and develop skills tailored to their unique needs. Successful tutoring requires skilled, empathetic tutors who can foster trust and create a positive learning environment. Clear communication between tutors, students, and families is also essential.
A+: Now is a time of transition—both for you and for A+. What kinds of changes or challenges do you anticipate going forward?
LUCY: I’m excited to expand A+ so that we’re able to serve more families. As we grow, it will be imperative that we maintain what has made A+ special – a team of tutors and staff that truly care about and get to know each student. We operate in an increasingly competitive landscape. To stay ahead, we need to maintain our commitment to the local community and quality education.
A+: It’s been several months since you began your work as A+’s new president. What are your thoughts on A+ so far?
LUCY: I’ve fallen in love with the organization – the people are some of the kindest and most genuine I’ve ever worked with. The team here cares deeply about the students, and that dedication shows in A+’s incredible reputation for helping students succeed.
A+: What excites you about the future of A+?
LUCY: What excites me most is the potential to build on this strong foundation by expanding our reach and offerings. I’m eager to bring in new ideas while staying true to the company’s roots.
Joining Lucy in her efforts is Kassie Fuiten, Director of Education, whom we will introduce in another interview next month. The two of them—along with A+’s existing team of tutors and staff—will continue to harness their passion for education and their tutoring expertise to benefit students and their families. As we say goodbye to Dan Ascher with gratitude, we also look to the future with optimism. We can’t wait to see what happens next for A+!
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