Santana began his academic journey at Northern New Mexico College (NNMC) while also attending the University of Hawaii at Hilo. He returned to New Mexico after accepting a paid internship with Dr. Steven K. Baum, a psychologist in private practice. He later received his BA of Integrated Studies in Psychology at NNMC.
Santana enjoys being part of decisions made within his community and he takes a proactive approach by engaging in his community through activism. He is a proud AmeriCorps VISTA alumni. He served at Rio Arriba County’s Benefits Enrollment Center in the Health & Human Services Department by helping to provide meals to grandparents raising grandchildren, senior citizens, and disabled adults. In his second term, he served at Moving Arts Española where he used his technical knowledge to expedite administrative processes while also helping to provide food boxes on a large scale during the pandemic. During this time, he learned the value of cultivating genuine and meaningful relationships. Santana also served as a Democratic Majority Analyst for State Senator Brenda McKenna, making him familiar with policy and the legislative process.
He joined the LANL Foundation in the fall of 2022 as the Early Childhood Program Associate.