Blending Creativity and Business
Santiago “Santi” Najarro Cano ’24’s story is one of determination, passion, and growth. As a first-generation American from Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Santi recently graduated from Providence College with a marketing major and a theatre minor. His journey is a testament to the transformative impact of a liberal arts education, embodying the significant influence of donor support through The Fund for Providence College.
Entering his freshman year, Santi was undecided on his major. He was initially drawn to the vibrant arts community, but he also had a deep interest in the business world, recognizing the potential of combining creative and practical skills. “I’ve always had a hunger for learning,” Santi reflects, which led him to declare a marketing major at the Providence College School of Business (PCSB) shortly after arriving on campus. Despite loving his studies, he still sought to blend his artistic passion with his marketing education, leading to a pivotal email to a professor about a theatre minor. Santi’s decision to pursue a theatre minor marked a defining chapter in his college experience, enriched by support from professors and peers despite pandemic-related challenges.
Amid easing pandemic restrictions, Santi fully engaged in campus life, attending McPhail’s gatherings and cheering for the Friars at men’s basketball games. As vice president of the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), he played a pivotal role in cultivating a sense of belonging among Latino students, empowering OLAS to be a dynamic center of student collaboration. Santi’s leadership helped facilitate meaningful cultural exchanges on campus, during which he organized and oversaw initiatives like a World Cup-themed intramural soccer tournament. Balancing these commitments with others in a cappella and the student comedy group Six Gents, Santi prioritized self-care. He utilized campus resources such as the counseling center and gym, finding solace in playing basketball with friends — resources made possible by the generosity of donors to The Fund for Providence College. Reflecting on his journey at PC, Santi cites the value of a nurturing environment, emphasizing how donor contributions and the community’s unwavering encouragement led to his personal growth.
People here want you to succeed, Santi affirmed.
In his junior year, Santi embraced the Benjamin Family Social Media Fellowship, honing his skills and preparing for future opportunities by managing social media pages for the PCSB. His determination to excel led him to an internship, and eventually, a prestigious position with L’Oreal in New York City. Santi’s journey epitomizes personal success and acknowledges the community that nurtured his development. His story demonstrates the transformative impact of donor support through The Fund for Providence College, empowering students like Santi to pursue their aspirations and create meaningful change in the world.
