In recognition of his career-long effort to provide educational and leadership opportunities for youth and adults, the Mid-Valley Literacy Center has honored Daniel P. Santos, associate dean of student affairs and administration for Willamette University College of Law, with its inaugural Literacy Trailblazer Award.
“We have a moral obligation to help those in need,” said Santos, summarizing his philosophy of helping others. “This award is not only appreciated, but also serves as a challenge for me to do more.”
The award was presented by former Governor Ted Kulongoski. The Honorable Paul De Muniz, former chief justice of the Oregon Supreme Court and jurist in residence at Willamette College of Law , delivered the keynote address.
Santos, who earned his J.D. from Willamette, spent 24 years in service to four Oregon governors, including Governors Neil Goldschmidt, Barbara Roberts, John Kitzhaber (first administration) and Ted Kulongoski. He has served in roles ranging from legal counsel to education policy coordinator, and director of the Commission on Agricultural Labor to chair of the Oregon Board of Parole and Post-Prison Supervision.
He is a founding member of Scholarships for Oregon Latinos, Willamette Academy, and the Leadership Council of Oregon Mentors. He also serves on the education committee of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival Board, and the Oregon Community Foundation Latino Partnership Program.
Mid-Valley Literacy Center is a Keizer-based nonprofit devoted to providing literacy services to adults.
