We love to celebrate our students’ achievements at Rosemont College! Today, we’re highlighting Reggie Santiago. His hard work earned him a spot on the President’s List.
Meet Reggie Santiago
Reggie is pursuing a BS in Business Administration with a Leadership Studies concentration. This degree is offered through the School of Professional Studies. When asked about his favorite course, Reggie shared, “Studying Organizational Behavior offered me valuable insights into the dynamics of organizational structures and how they drive success.”
Why Rosemont?
Reggie chose Rosemont College “due to the benefits they extended to employees at my workplace, including credit discounts. Most importantly, I valued the flexible study schedule and the accessibility of the faculty.”
Beyond the Classroom
Reggie excels academically, but he also makes a big impact professionally. He works for the Center for Family Services as a Peer Recovery Specialist at the Salem County Correctional Facility. In this role, he supports inmates struggling with substance abuse disorders. He provides them with resources, counseling, and guidance on their recovery journey. This professional opportunity allows him to make a direct impact on individuals seeking a second chance.
Shaping the Future
Looking ahead, Reggie has a clear vision for his impact on the world. “After graduation, I aspire to become a strong and inspiring leader within an organization, where I can make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. My ultimate goal is to establish my own outpatient services company dedicated to supporting individuals with substance use disorders. I want to create a space where people feel seen, supported, and empowered on their journey to recovery, while also contributing to a more understanding and proactive approach to addiction treatment.”
Words of Inspiration
Reggie shared his incredible journey, stating, “Before I pursued higher education, I was an amateur and professional boxer who had the honor of representing Puerto Rico internationally. My path wasn’t linear. I began College in Puerto Rico in 1998 and studied communications for two years before dropping out of university and facing one of the most difficult chapters of my life. I struggled with heroin addiction for 15 years, and in 2016, I lost my left arm due to complications from drug use.
That loss became a turning point. In 2017, I chose recovery. I’ve remained clean and sober ever since, dedicating myself to rebuilding not just my life, but the lives of others. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked in four substance use recovery programs, becoming a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. I’m now close to completing my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership at Rosemont College, which generously accepted over 40 transfer credits.
What inspires me most is my determination—the drive to prove to myself that I could rise above my past, reclaim my future, and become a force for good. I now work at the Center for Family Services at Salem County Correctional Facility, guiding inmates on their journeys toward recovery and redemption, just as I once needed someone to guide me.”
We are incredibly proud of Reggie’s accomplishments and can’t wait to see the positive impact he will undoubtedly make. Stay tuned for more spotlights on our amazing Rosemont College students!
