Former UCI parents gift $1 million to support students

Kathleen and Mark Santora, UCI Foundation trustees and former Anteater parents, have gifted $1 million as part of UCI’s Brilliant Future campaign. Their gift will create the Kathleen and Mark Santora Student Excellence Fund to support multiple areas across campus that directly impact students. The Santoras are particularly passionate about supporting underserved students and are motivated by their desire to see all students receive a high-quality education.

This is not the first time the couple has contributed to the growth of the university. After the enriching experience their children had at UCI, the Santoras became enthusiastic supporters of the Anteater community. The couple has encouraged undergraduate students to thrive through their involvement with the Undergraduate Success Leadership Advisory Committee, the Black Thriving Initiative Advisory Board and the Chancellor’s Club. The Santoras also regularly attend UCI sporting events and have expanded the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics’ strength and conditioning facility, now renamed the Santora Elite Training Center.