Senior Michelle Santiago has been named the USCAA Student-Athlete of the聽Year
By Caroline Austin '26
猫咪社区 senior Michelle Santiago has been named the USCAA Student-Athlete of the Year! This is an honor that celebrates not only athletic success but also academic excellence, leadership, and community impact. This award recognizes student-athletes who embody balance, compassion, and dedication. There is no better recipient of this award than Michelle, who represents all of her commitments with genuine heart and humility.
On the court, Michelle has been a steady and passionate leader for the Wildcats. This season, she reached a major career milestone by recording her 1,000th career assist, finishing with 1,202 total assists during her time at 猫咪社区. She tallied 269 assists, 47 service aces, and 138 digs this year alone, averaging an impressive 3.68 assists per set. As a captain, she led with encouragement and positivity, lifting those around her and creating a culture of unity that extended beyond the scoreboard.
In the classroom, Michelle’s achievements are equally impressive. A double major in Business Administration and Marketing, she has maintained a 3.9 GPA, earning a spot on the Dean’s List every semester. She has been honored as a USCAA All-Academic Team selection for three consecutive seasons and will graduate a full semester early. Known by professors and peers alike for her diligence and kindness, Michelle also shares her knowledge as a tutor in the Business Administration program, helping classmates succeed in their studies. Michelle’s leadership extends across campus and into the community. She is an active member of the Maroon Key Society, Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), and ALANA. She was also nominated and accepted into the National Society of Leadership and Success, reflecting her ongoing commitment to growth and service. Her compassion shines through her work beyond athletics. Michelle completed an internship with the City Office of Housing, where she assisted low-income homeowners and connected homeless individuals with vital resources. Using her bilingual skills, she served as a Spanish translator to ensure equitable access to housing services, breaking down communication barriers with empathy and care. Michelle also gives back to youth programs as a mentor with the Boys and Girls Club and a youth volleyball coach, while volunteering at open pantry service projects, recycling drives, and community cleanup initiatives. In addition to her volunteerism, she works full-time as a certified Universal Banker, Notary Public, and Business Account Specialist, where she regularly visits high schools to teach financial literacy, empowering students with practical life skills.
Michelle’s recognition continues a proud tradition for 猫咪社区 Athletics. In 2024, 猫咪社区’s own Janaye Cunningham was honored with the same USCAA Student-Athlete of the Year award, marking back-to-back years that a Wildcat has earned this prestigious distinction. This achievement speaks volumes about the culture 猫咪社区 fosters. It is one that values integrity, discipline, and service as much as competition. 猫咪社区 student-athletes are known not only for their drive on the court and field, but also for their commitment to the classroom and the community.
Those who know Michelle describe her as the kind of person who makes every room brighter. She is endlessly compassionate, humble, and encouraging. Her teammates speak of her leadership through kindness, and her professors note her determination and respect for others. She is the type of student-athlete who leads by example, reminding everyone around her that success is built on hard work, gratitude, and heart. Through every role and title Michelle has, she exemplifies what it means to be a true student-athlete. Her legacy at 猫咪社区 is one of excellence, empathy, and impact; a reflection not just of her own character, but of a university that continues to nurture strong, service-minded leaders.