Mike Santini

Mike Santini is a dedicated and passionate changemaker, with over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector. Upon graduating from the University of Maryland with a B.A. in Spanish Language & American Studies, Mike began working at Words, Beats & Life – a hip-hop based arts educational non-profit in Washington, DC. As a member of their Development team, Mike spearheaded the “A Dollar and A Dream” individual giving campaign.

A few years later, he returned to his hometown to work for the Prospector Theater, a start-up non-profit providing competitive and inclusive employment to people with disabilities. As one of the first hires, Mike played an integral role in the start-up, with his work including operationalization, implementing systems of continuous improvement, and developing mission-based educational programming.

During his seven years as Director of Development, Mike led the fundraising team, cultivating support from donors, grantors, and sponsorship. In 2021, he was promoted to the role of Executive Director, leading the organization for two years before joining the TD Jakes Foundation. Mike has been honored in Connecticut Magazine’s “40 Under 40”, as well as by the University of Maryland as part of their Terrapin Club’s “30 Under 30”.