Her Story
About Juani
Juani Santiago serves as Connections Coordinator for Gresham-Barlow School District 10J, based out of Ray Academy, an in-district alternative program in Portland, Oregon, where she is now entering her fifth year in the role. In this capacity, she works to re-engage students who have become disconnected from traditional high school pathways, linking them back to their home schools or to alternative options such as GED and workforce programs. Her approach centers on meeting young people where they are, listening without judgment, and refusing to give up on them, with particular attention to serving the Latino community and ensuring Spanish-speaking families are not left out of the conversation.
Santiago's path to this work began nine years ago, when she joined the district as a teacher assistant in a special education classroom. After two and a half years, she stepped into a role as a Spanish community liaison, where she became a vital communication bridge between schools and Spanish-speaking households. It was a coworker's encouragement, urging her to apply for a position she didn't yet feel ready for, that eventually led her to her current role as Connections Coordinator, a move she now counts among the most pivotal of her career. Alongside her professional responsibilities, she recently completed her studies at Portland Community College and has been accepted into the social work program at Portland State University, marking the next step in her ongoing commitment to the field.
Recognized as part of the 2026 Influential Women feature, Santiago credits her achievements to the relationships she builds with students and the guidance she's received from coworkers, social workers, and loved ones alike. She remains connected to a wider network of community partners, including Rosemary Anderson, Portland Youth Builders, Mount Hood Community College's GED program, and Open East School. Her advice to young women entering the field is simple but heartfelt: come with an open heart, find mentors who push you to grow, and never lose sight of why you started—loving the students you serve.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Juani
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the relationships I've built with students and the connections I've made with them right from the start. I'm also deeply grateful for the support of my coworkers and the social workers who guided me along the way, as well as my friends and family, who encouraged me through what was a difficult first year.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received came from a coworker, Dawn LaJoya-Jackson, who encouraged me to apply for a role I didn't initially feel qualified for. She reminded me that experience counts and that I should simply go for it—advice that ultimately shaped the direction of my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell them to come in with an open mind and an open heart, willing to accept others and truly listen to their stories. Build a strong support system, and seek out mentors who will challenge you to grow. Most importantly, love what you do and love the students you serve.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the biggest challenges I see are systemic barriers that sometimes fail the very students we're trying to help, along with budget cuts that put important programs at risk. At the same time, I see real opportunity in alternative education programs and community partnerships, which open doors to GED completion, career pathways, and postsecondary access for students.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are helping others, serving my community, honoring cultural connection, and staying persistent in the face of challenges. I also place great importance on advocacy and on building strong, genuine relationships with students and their families.
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