College president hiking diversity

The 1,800-member student body of Briarcliffe College didn't quite reflect the diversity of Long Island when George Santiago Jr. joined as provost six years ago.

After reaching out to Hispanic leaders and community-based organizations, Santiago says Hispanic enrollment has nearly doubled to 14 percent. "Great gains," he says, but "we're not done yet." Santiago, who became president four years ago, said African-American enrollment was at about 20 percent. "I'm committed to increasing that diversity even more."

He also serves on the Nassau County Youth Board, Adelante of Suffolk County and the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce. An avid softball player, Santiago, 49, has a partner and collects stuffed animals for their beagle, Paltrow, on his worldwide travels.What's your approach to competing with other schools?

"Quality outcomes. We have a very special niche here at Briarcliffe College. Our students are here for one main reason, and that's to be trained in a chosen discipline and as soon as they graduate to go out in the workforce in that field of study. About 82 percent of our students are placed in their field of choice within the first six months. We thrive on excellent customer service for our students. That's ingrained in everything that we do. The attention that our students receive from faculty and staff, that one-on-one relationship -- that we build from day one."

 What do you remember about the first time you had to manage somebody?
"Letting go," he says. Accustomed to trying to control his work product, he recalls wondering, "OK, what do I do with this person?" He says, "It took time to understand what their role is, what my role is, what responsibilities should be transferred to that individual."

He describes conversations about providing feedback as "really awkward at the time. With practice - you get it."

 How do you get people to do what you want them to do?
"First and foremost, you don't get people to do what you want them to do unless you're willing to do it yourself. Lead by example. Certainly, if you want them to do something on your behalf or on the institution's behalf, you have to give them the resources to be able to do it. Whether it be the financial tools, the human resources - do they have the capacity to turn a project around on behalf of the institution? So that means professional development activities, giving those tools so they can succeed."

 What qualities do you look for when you're hiring?
"People with passion. People who understand the student population that we serve." In addition to a master's degree, he says, he seeks employees with "high standards - who want to take it to the next level."

 What would you change about Long Island?
"I would like to see more tolerance toward people who are different from others. Appreciate diversity and what everybody brings to the table."

EXECUTIVE SNAPSHOT

 Name: George Santiago Jr.

Title: President

Company: Briarcliffe College

Institution:  College offering associate and bachelor's degrees

Location: Bethpage, Patchogue and Long Island City

Type: Private institution

Revenue: More than $30 million annually

Employees: 150, and more than 75 adjunct instructors