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Profiles of Hispanics at EPA: Neftalí Hernández-Santiago

Profiles of Hispanics at EPA



Picture of Neftalí Hernández-SantiagoNeftalí Hernández-Santiago, Environmental Scientist,
Region 7,

Drinking Water Management Branch

Question: Where were you born?

Neftalí Hernández-Santiago: Puerto Rico.

Question: Where did you go to college? What was your major?

Neftalí Hernández-Santiago: I studied at the University of Puerto Rico. I have a bachelor’s of science in biology and a master’s in public health.

Question: What brought you to EPA?

Neftalí Hernández-Santiago: I always wanted to work for the agency. I was captivated by its mission: “to protect human health and the environment.”

Question: What kind of work do you do at EPA?

Neftalí Hernández-Santiago: I oversee the implementation of the Safe Drinking Water Act in the State of Missouri, working directly with state officials, community leaders and other stakeholders. I also help develop drinking water regulations. In addition, I am part of a team that responds to large scale emergencies affecting drinking water utilities.

Question: What message would you like to send young Latinos who are considering going to college?

Neftalí Hernández-Santiago: I think a college education is meaningful and worth every penny. Envision the kind of job you would like to do and then decide the educational path that will lead you to that job. Best luck to you.

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