2023 President’s Medallion Recipient
President’s Medallion Recipient
Chisa Santiago, 2023 medallion winner
Loyola University Chicago proudly recognizes Chisa Santiago, a dedicated law enforcement officer, for her exceptional commitment to both academic excellence and community service. Chisa has been awarded the prestigious President's Medallion, a testament to her outstanding contributions and achievements during her academic journey at Loyola.
Chisa, serving as a sergeant in community policing, seamlessly blended her professional responsibilities with a deep commitment to community engagement. Her role extended beyond the routine tasks of law enforcement, as she took on the mantle of coordinating impactful community activities. From prayer circles to community beautification projects, resource fairs, and food and toy drives, Chisa's initiatives consistently fostered positive interactions between the police and the community.
In addition to her service within the police force, Chisa demonstrated an unwavering commitment to a nonprofit organization comprising law enforcement officers. This organization not only focused on the professional and ethical advancement of its members but also actively contributed to the community by raising funds for families of police officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Chisa's involvement in these initiatives reflects a profound sense of civic responsibility and gratitude.
A future of opportunity.
Throughout her academic journey at Loyola, Chisa exemplified resilience and determination. When faced with the challenges of coursework, she embraced the Jesuit mission of the university, which encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone, become more open-minded, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Chisa's dedication to her studies was recognized with the President's Medallion, an honor bestowed upon students who exhibit outstanding academic achievement and a deep commitment to Loyola's mission.
Chisa's academic journey at Loyola has not only equipped her for professional advancement within the police department but has also sparked a contemplation of a career change. Inspired by Loyola's diverse paralegal classes, she is now considering pursuing a master's degree, further expanding her horizons in the legal field.
“My time at Loyola helped me step out of my comfort zone. I am more-open minded and have a renewed sense of responsibility to humanity, which I bring with me to my work.” Chisa Santiago, School of Continuing and Professional Studies Senior
Loyola SCPS - Creating a convenient, accessible, and inclusive academic environment where adult learners thrive.
A life of service.
In her research as a student, Chisa identified critical issues within her district, ranging from violent crimes to resource shortages. Her commitment to collaborative problem-solving, involving both law enforcement and the community, highlights her forward-thinking approach to addressing complex challenges.
Chisa expressed deep gratitude for the scholarship support she received, courtesy of Loyola's partnership with the Chicago Police Department. The discount on tuition, combined with the University's commitment to education, played a pivotal role in supporting officers like Chisa in their pursuit of higher education while balancing familial responsibilities.
"My time at Loyola helped me step out of my comfort zone. I am more-open minded and have a renewed sense of responsibility to humanity, which I bring with me to my work."
Loyola memories.
As Chisa nears the completion of her academic journey, she reflects on the significance of being chosen for the President's Medallion. This accolade serves as a validation of her hard work, dedication, and the transformative impact of her education at Loyola. In her own words, Loyola has been the perfect choice, and the recognition encapsulates the culmination of her school experience.
Chisa encourages others who may be contemplating a return to education, emphasizing that it is never too late to pursue academic goals. She remains an integral part of the Loyola community, epitomizing the University's commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and community engagement.
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LEADERSHIP. SCHOLARSHIP. SERVICE.
Those three words are etched onto the President’s Medallion that Loyola awards annually to its most outstanding students, one from each of its 14 colleges, institutes, and schools. And they also sum up the 2023–24 President’s Medallion recipients—students who excel not only in the classroom but also in the world and are dedicated to helping those around them.
Chisa, serving as a sergeant in community policing, seamlessly blended her professional responsibilities with a deep commitment to community engagement. Her role extended beyond the routine tasks of law enforcement, as she took on the mantle of coordinating impactful community activities. From prayer circles to community beautification projects, resource fairs, and food and toy drives, Chisa's initiatives consistently fostered positive interactions between the police and the community.
In addition to her service within the police force, Chisa demonstrated an unwavering commitment to a nonprofit organization comprising law enforcement officers. This organization not only focused on the professional and ethical advancement of its members but also actively contributed to the community by raising funds for families of police officers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Chisa's involvement in these initiatives reflects a profound sense of civic responsibility and gratitude.
A future of opportunity.
Throughout her academic journey at Loyola, Chisa exemplified resilience and determination. When faced with the challenges of coursework, she embraced the Jesuit mission of the university, which encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone, become more open-minded, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Chisa's dedication to her studies was recognized with the President's Medallion, an honor bestowed upon students who exhibit outstanding academic achievement and a deep commitment to Loyola's mission.
Chisa's academic journey at Loyola has not only equipped her for professional advancement within the police department but has also sparked a contemplation of a career change. Inspired by Loyola's diverse paralegal classes, she is now considering pursuing a master's degree, further expanding her horizons in the legal field.
A life of service.
In her research as a student, Chisa identified critical issues within her district, ranging from violent crimes to resource shortages. Her commitment to collaborative problem-solving, involving both law enforcement and the community, highlights her forward-thinking approach to addressing complex challenges.
Chisa expressed deep gratitude for the scholarship support she received, courtesy of Loyola's partnership with the Chicago Police Department. The discount on tuition, combined with the University's commitment to education, played a pivotal role in supporting officers like Chisa in their pursuit of higher education while balancing familial responsibilities.
Loyola memories.
As Chisa nears the completion of her academic journey, she reflects on the significance of being chosen for the President's Medallion. This accolade serves as a validation of her hard work, dedication, and the transformative impact of her education at Loyola. In her own words, Loyola has been the perfect choice, and the recognition encapsulates the culmination of her school experience.
Chisa encourages others who may be contemplating a return to education, emphasizing that it is never too late to pursue academic goals. She remains an integral part of the Loyola community, epitomizing the University's commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and community engagement.