Michelle Santiago Vice President of Communications Excelencia in Education Email msantiago@EdExcelencia.org Current Position: Michelle Santiago serves as the Vice President of Communications of Excelencia in Education, developing and implementing the organization’s strategic communications plan to support, strengthen, and build awareness of Excelencia in Education’s mission and work. She has managed Excelencia’s digital communications since 2009, including the website, presence in social media platforms, as well as online campaigns. Past Experiences: For over 25 years, Michelle has worked to advance educational success of Latino students and all students as a leadership development associate for students and parents, high school teacher, university faculty member, and community health educator. Michelle received her M.Ed. from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Communications from James Madison University. Why are you bringing your talent to Excelencia? Michelle first began working at Excelencia in Education because of her desire to combine her communications experience with her interest in supporting the educational success of Latino and all students. How would you describe working at Excelencia? For the time I have been working at Excelencia, every day has been an opportunity to learn and grow both professionally and personally. I feel very fortunate to work in an environment where my thoughts and ideas can be shared and incorporated into organizational efforts. I have appreciated being able to work with inspiring leadership, represent Excelencia in efforts with others committed to cause, and to give back to the Latino community through supporting Excelencia's mission.