Wilbur Wright College Greets New V.P. Dr Santos-George

By: Kyle Chmielowski 

“I’m really passionate about higher education, the role that it plays in changing people’s lives and I want to do this as long as I can,” expressed the new Vice President of Wilbur Wight College Dr. Arlene Santos-George. 

Departing from her previous position as Vice President of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development at Mchenry County College, Santos-George brings a plethora of knowledge to Wright College.

Wright Times News sat down with Dr. Santos-George to learn more about her job, personality, and thoughts about Wright College.  

Dr. Santos-George working in her office, in room A103.  Photo Credit: Kyle Chmielowski

     Vice President Santos-George says that friendliness and diversity stand out at Wright College. “My first impression is that everyone is working well together. People have smiles on their faces, they say good morning to each other, and they are very warm and welcoming. That is very comforting when you’re new.” 

Dr. Santos-George explained some of her everyday duties include attending collaborative meetings, executing administrative processes like the approval of how money is spent, and coordinating projects. 

Dr. Santos-George highlighted what she can bring to Wright College. “My main goal is to expand programs for students so that they can be employable when they graduate. My expertise is all about program expansion. Our students will benefit if they can graduate from a program and get a job easily.”

Dr. Santos-George focuses on how she has succeeded in expanding program offerings at McHenry County College. “We were able to create 33 new certificates and six new Associate in Arts degrees in a year and a half. I am very proud of that.” 

She describes herself as a proponent of innovation and shares an idea on how to spread information here at Wright. “It’s in the flush, there is a plastic holder in the restrooms to insert new information around campus. It’s very useful because the events are so widely attended. After all, the advertisement is so effective.”

Her free time is spent traveling, hiking, visiting the Art Institute, and tends to gardening. She loves the outdoors, whether it is hiking a volcano, swimming with whales, or feeding birds in her backyard. 

Dr. Santos-George assures students that she is there to support them. “My door is always open, I like talking with students. Hopefully, my time will not just be spent working with faculty, but I’m hoping that I can be actively involved in student activities. I am a firm believer that every student can reach their potential. I believe any student can grow and I am here to help in that personal and educational growth.”