“This was my first year of eligibility for this award and I certainly did not expect to win it at all,” said Santiago. “When it was announced that I was not only nominated but had in fact won, I was elated. It is a very humbling experience as I am not doing this for recognition, but it is awesome to see my passion be recognized by those most affected by my work.”

Santiago explains that his path to this honor was supported by the educators he met along the way. 

“My journey has been shaped by numerous passionate educators all along my professional journey, educators and mentors who took the time to help me focus my efforts and grow my skill set." Santiago said. "All they needed ever asked was for me to never stop growing and to be willing to share with others.”

Santiago’s background in tutoring helped him find a passion for teaching and connecting with learners. 

“I have enjoyed tutoring as long as I could remember,” Santiago added. “But there is science and art in the profession of teaching and my role as clinician-educator has helped by my understanding that different learners can arrive at the same destination via different paths; and I need allow them an opportunity to find their path through a welcoming environment.”

As students grow, Santiago’s excitement for them does as well. 

“I enjoy seeing students grow in their confidence to manage complex situations. I am most joyous in seeing a student finally succeed in forming a solid problem representation and plan for a patient who has no multiple-choice question attached to them that provides the definitive answer,” Santiago said. “When that happens, I know they are ready for the next stage. I also enjoy hearing their personal stories, their aspirations, and, sometimes, their fears. These may be my future colleagues, and knowing that I have had a hand in their success is humbling.”