Dr. Milton Santiago began as Interim President on August 21, 2023, after serving as Interim Vice President of Administration & Finance here at Bronx Community College (BCC). He assumed the role following the retirement of Dr. Thomas A. Isekenegbe, the sixth president in BCC’s history.  Dr. Santiago is an experienced leader in higher education, having held numerous roles within the CUNY system.

As Interim President, Dr. Santiago will focus on ensuring BCC’s fiscal stability; increasing the student retention rate; preserving aging infrastructure; and addressing the individual needs of students. He is a strong advocate for the provision of services such as the Early Childcare Center, the food pantry and a range of mental health services to give students every opportunity for success. Dr. Santiago’s early background in social work and his inclination for empathy and human understanding have shaped his professional career.

Dr. Santiago served as VP of Administration at SUNY Dutchess Community College in 2018, before a brief entrée into retirement. He was at Lehman College for more than 10 years, starting in 1997 as Deputy to the President. He also served as Lehman’s Interim AVP for External Affairs and Advancement and Interim Director of External and Government Relations, as well as Interim VP for Continuing Education and Workforce Development and Professional Studies. Additionally, Dr. Santiago’s work at CUNY included a term as Vice President for Finance & Administration at the College of Staten Island.

Dr. Santiago received a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Latin American Studies from Binghamton University and a Master of Social Work degree from NYU.  He earned his Doctor of Education — Ed.D. focused on Higher Education/Higher Education Administration — from University of Massachusetts Boston.