Meet Elba Santiago! Elba is a Business Development Coordinator at Thompson Coburn LLP and a member of the LMA Chicago Local Group. Elba shares what Hispanic Heritage Month means to her, talks about her favorite cultural celebrations, and more.
Tell us your story - where do you work and what do you do?
I work at Thompson Coburn LLP and provide marketing and business development support services for all attorneys and staff firmwide, including assisting with webinars and presentations, and data maintenance.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month to me is a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions, cultures, and achievements of Hispanic individuals. It's an opportunity to honor the rich history and diverse backgrounds of Hispanics.
How are you planning to celebrate this month?
I plan to do some dancing and cooking. Being from Puerto Rico, food and music are an everyday part of our lives. My fiancé, who is of Irish descent, has embraced my culture and loves our food. I plan to make one of his favorite dishes, arroz con gandules y lechon asado (Puerto Rican rice with pigeon peas and roasted pork). I also want to teach him a little bit of Salsa dancing.
What is your favorite cultural tradition?
My favorite Puerto Rican tradition is Three Kings Day. Puerto Ricans have one of the longest, if not the longest, Christmas seasons in the world. Puerto Ricans celebrate Three Kings Day with festivals and parades with local people and actors dressed as the Three Wise Men and deliver gifts to the children. My other favorite tradition is Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, considered to be the unofficial closure ceremony of the holiday season. This festival is one of the most predictable parties of Puerto Rico that always takes place the third weekend of January.
If you could go back and speak to your younger self, what would you say?
I would say to my younger self to seize the opportunity to learn more about my culture. As a young teenager, I lived in Puerto Rico for a year and a half and did not appreciate the time I had there.
I love to dance. Salsa being my favorite.
What was the best vacation you've ever been on?
The best vacation I had was to Italy.
What travel spot is on your bucket list?
Greece
Who was your top artist on Spotify Wrapped last year?
What was your first live concert?
What TV show are you currently streaming?
Suits (A bit late)
Pick one word to describe your "why." What motivates you in your career and personal life?
Passion
How has LMA helped you accomplish your career goals?
While I have been a member of LMA for a long time, I have not taken advantage of all LMA has to offer. My goal is to change that and take advantage of using LMA to broaden my networking circle and use the educational resources to enhance my professional development. LMA is a community of legal marketing professionals who are always willing to share their knowledge.
What's the best career advice that someone has ever given you?
The best advice I received was to stay curious and keep learning. Marketing is an ever-evolving field.