Ana Lúcia Lico holds a master's degree in Linguistics and has been studying and learning about Heritage Languages and Cultures by carrying out community leadership projects and workshops for teachers. Her research focuses on heritage languages and the role of the family and community-based schools in the process of identity building for teenagers. Ana Lúcia is one of the founders of the Brazilian Association of Culture and Education (ABRACE). She’s also a member of the Citizens' Council of the Brazilian Consulate in Washington, DC, and a co-founder and board member of the Coalition of Community-Based Heritage Language Schools. In 2016, she received an award from the Brazilian government for her notable contribution to Brazilian cultural and educational diplomacy. In 2017, she received the "Most Relevant Publication for Portuguese Teachers" award from The American Organization of Teachers of Portuguese (AOTP) for contributing to a book written for families living abroad on developing and maintaining Portuguese as a heritage language.