To the Campus Community,

With profound respect and deep appreciation, I announce that I will be concluding my service as Interim President of Bronx Community College, effective July 11, 2025. As many of you know, the Board of Trustees has named Dr. Larry Johnson Jr. as the permanent President of BCC. I join the campus community in welcoming him and look forward to the College’s continued progress under his leadership.

Serving as your Interim President over the past two years, and before that as Interim Vice President for Administration and Finance, has been a privilege. It has also been one of the most rewarding periods of my professional life. I have had the honor of working alongside dedicated faculty, staff, and students who believe in the transformative power of education and demonstrate that belief through their daily efforts.

Together, we have faced challenges head-on through determination, collaboration, and resilience. And together, we have accomplished a great deal. I’d like to take a moment to reflect on a few of our shared achievements:

Institutional Progress and Accomplishments

Enrollment and Retention:
We reversed a troubling trend in declining enrollment by focusing our efforts on student success and engagement. Our continuing student numbers have increased significantly, a powerful testament to the collective work of advisors, faculty, staff, and student support teams who have helped foster a culture of belonging and academic persistence.

Middle States Accreditation:
Our community came together to prepare a comprehensive and high-quality Self-Study Design. This document is of such quality the MSCHE requested it be used as a model for other institutions until 2027. Under the exceptional leadership of Dean Ray Galinski and a dedicated Steering Committee, we are on solid footing for our upcoming Middle States review and confident in our ability to tell BCC’s story with pride and integrity.

Financial Health and Infrastructure:
As a result of stronger enrollment and improved collections, our financial standing has steadily improved. We have invested strategically in campus infrastructure, including the modernization of classroom equipment and common areas, to create spaces that reflect the professionalism and academic excellence we seek to foster.

Technology Upgrades:
Thanks to major investments from CUNY Central, our campus technology infrastructure has undergone a much-needed transformation. New fiber connectivity, modern desktop replacements, an upgraded phone system, and full replacement of routers and switches are just a few of the improvements that will support our academic and operational needs for years to come. I thank AVP Luisa Martich and the IT team for leading this effort with such commitment and care.

Capital Investment in the Student Experience:
With support from our elected officials we secured $4 million in funding for the full revitalization of Ohio Field, enhancing recreational and athletic opportunities for our students. Another $4 million will support the expansion of our Media and Digital Film Production program, further positioning BCC as a leader in creative and career-oriented education. Additional capital projects focused on HVAC modernization and campus safety enhancements are also underway.

These successes belong to all of us. They are the result of your hard work, your belief in our students, and your unwavering commitment to the College’s mission. I am especially proud that these accomplishments have taken place during a time of transition. This proves once again that this community is both resilient and forward-looking.

Beyond the metrics and milestones, what I will cherish most is the spirit of this community. The faculty go above and beyond for their students. The staff keep our campus running smoothly with care and competence. And above all, the students inspire us with their determination and dreams.

To our students, it has been the greatest privilege to serve you. Your courage, curiosity, and persistence are what make BCC a truly special place. Your success is our success, and I leave confident that you are in good hands.

As I prepare to depart, I ask that you extend to Dr. Johnson the same support, trust, and partnership that you offered me. Change brings new opportunities. I have no doubt that BCC’s brightest days are still ahead.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to serve you.

With deepest gratitude,

Milton Santiago, Ed.D.
Interim President
Bronx Community College