Assembly Resolution No. 175

BY: M. of A. Cook

HONORING Dr. Maria Santiago upon the occasion of
her designation for special recognition at the Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Visionary Awards Gala on
March 9, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend individuals whose leadership, compassion, and dedication to
service have profoundly impacted the lives of others, particularly the
most vulnerable members of our communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Dr. Maria Santiago upon the occasion of her designation for special
recognition at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visionary Awards Gala, to
be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, in celebration of Women's History
Month under the theme "Women of Destiny"; and

WHEREAS, A visionary leader in healthcare and senior advocacy, Dr.
Maria Santiago has dedicated her career to enhancing the well-being of
elderly individuals, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care,
dignity, and respect; and

WHEREAS, Originally pursuing a career in broadcasting, Dr. Maria
Santiago's journey took a transformative turn when she discovered her
true calling--caring for seniors--a passion that has guided her work and
defined her legacy in healthcare and philanthropy; and

WHEREAS, After immigrating from Trinidad to the United States, Dr.
Maria Santiago pursued her education at Hostos Community College in the
Bronx, Lehman College, and the Connecticut School of Broadcasting,
skillfully balancing her passion for media with her growing commitment
to senior care; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Maria Santiago worked her way through the healthcare
system, rising from administrator to CEO and ultimately founding her own
Home Health Aide Training Institute in New York, where she trains and
empowers future healthcare workers, providing them with the skills and
opportunities to experience the fulfillment of caring for others; and

WHEREAS, Through her philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Maria Santiago has
extended her humanitarian outreach globally, providing meals and
essential resources to families in Ghana, Nigeria, and Trinidad,
demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving communities in need;
and

WHEREAS, During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Maria Santiago honored
and celebrated essential workers, recognizing their sacrifices by
awarding over $100,000 in scholarships and life insurance policies,
ensuring that those on the front lines of healthcare received the
support and recognition they deserved; and

WHEREAS, With each training program she oversees, job placement she
facilitates, and act of service she performs, Dr. Maria Santiago remains

steadfast in her mission to increase awareness of exemplary healthcare
practices for seniors, ensuring they receive the highest quality of
care; and

WHEREAS, Guided by the belief that "there is a divine plan for all
of us," Dr. Maria Santiago has committed herself to understanding and
addressing the challenges faced by seniors, profoundly improving the
lives of those in need, as well as the families and caregivers who serve
them; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Maria Santiago's tireless dedication to healthcare,
philanthropy, and education exemplifies the principles of service,
compassion, and advocacy, making her a fitting honoree at the Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr. Visionary Awards Gala; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Dr. Maria Santiago upon the occasion of her designation for
special recognition at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visionary Awards
Gala, commending her for her extraordinary contributions to senior care,
healthcare education, and global philanthropy; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Dr. Maria Santiago.