Setting the Stage for the Scholarship Gala

Setting the Stage for the Scholarship Gala

Steven Santana brings energy and experience to the booth as he prepares to perform at the Scholarship Gala. (Courtesy Steven Santana)

The ULV alum brings his journey full circle, returning to the Scholarship Gala to support the next generation of Leopards

From campus gigs to major stages, Steven Santana has built a career on creating unforgettable moments. Now, the University of La Verne alumnus is coming full circle returning to campus to DJ the 2026 Scholarship Gala, where his own journey once began as a scholarship recipient.

The event is more than just another set; it's a chance for Santana to give back to the kind of support system that helped him succeed. "It took a weight off my chest," Santana said of receiving an academic scholarship during his time at La Verne. "It made the experience a lot less stressful."

Guests can expect a high-energy set built from years of experience performing at major events and sharing stages with nationally recognized names. "I always love coming back," he said. "It's my way of being involved and leaving my mark."

Long before he was opening for artists such as Flo Rida and the Backstreet Boys or working as an events and promotions manager at iHeartMedia, Santana was a kid from a music-loving family. "My dad was a DJ, so I grew up around it," he said. "He was the hip hop guy, my mom was into electronic and house… so I was listening to everything." By 13, he was already mixing tracks at home, teaching himself, experimenting, and building the foundation for what would eventually become a career.

But it wasn't until he arrived at ULV that things really started to take shape. At La Verne, Santana leaned into campus life, joining the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and eventually becoming concert chair. More importantly, he started putting himself out there. "I was just trying to be everywhere," he said.

He DJ'd events for free and threw his own shows, helped with campus traditions and did whatever it took to build his name and gain experience. And at a place like La Verne, it worked.

Because of the university's close-knit community, word spread quickly. One event turned into another. Free gigs turned into paid opportunities. Before long, Santana was DJing formals, alumni events, and performances beyond campus. "La Verne helped build that mentality," he said. "Being everywhere, staying consistent, and hoping for the best."

After graduating in 2015, Santana landed a role at iHeartRadio as a promotions assistant, representing multiple stations and DJing at events across the region. He went on to perform at major events like Wango Tango, Jingle Ball, and Alter Ego. Today, he continues that work as an events and promotions manager, balancing leadership with his passion for music. "It's cool because I still get to be in that world," he said.

Santana and his wife, Savannah Santana, both ULV alumni, share a connection to the university that goes beyond the classroom. The two met in high school and continued their journey together at La Verne, building a shared community and experience along the way.

Now, as they prepare to welcome their first child, Santana hopes that connection might continue into the next generation. "I loved it," he said. "If we could make it happen, I'd want that for my kid too."

Looking back, Santana credits his growth to one simple idea: you get out what you put in.

"It wasn't until I got involved that things really changed for me," he said. Through DJing, campus involvement, and experiences like hosting his own show on LeoFM, he found confidence, community, and direction. "La Verne got me out of my shell," he said.

Santana returns to the Scholarship Gala not just as a performer, but as someone who once stood in the same place as the students it supports.

About the 2026 Scholarship Gala

The gala highlights the impact of academic scholarships at La Verne while celebrating the achievements of students and the supporters who help make their education possible.

The evening begins with a 6 p.m. reception, followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and dancing at 8:30 p.m. Guests are invited to attend in black-tie optional attire.

For sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and additional details, visit laverne.edu/gala.