Samantha (Santi) Gunderson is a proud third-generation Sac High graduate. Growing up in an environment where both staff and students shared a collective goal—to strive for betterment for themselves and each other—Santi found herself surrounded by a culture deeply rooted in academic excellence. At Sac High, the expectation that students would continue their education beyond graduation was woven into the school’s culture.

The supportive teachers and staff served as constant resources, preparing students for life after high school. Sac High’s commitment to preparing students for their future was evident in the availability of college-level opportunities such as Advanced Placement (AP) courses and internships. These experiences enriched Santi’s academic journey and set a strong foundation for her adaptability and perseverance.

Santi began her college journey at San Francisco State University, majoring in Zoology. She faced an unexpected hurdle when the program was abruptly discontinued. Thanks to the preparation and resilience instilled in her at Sac High, Santi was able to navigate this setback by pivoting towards the Community College system which opened up unique opportunities that allowed her to explore diverse fields.

Santi became a classically trained actor and signed with a Screen Actors Guild contracted agency in San Francisco for acting and modeling. She is also a licensed bartender and a certified financial resource counselor at Golden1. In her current role at the bank, Santi interacts with both members and non-members offering free services that help individuals set and achieve their financial goals. Her work is especially impactful in underserved communities where financial literacy is often lacking. Santi provides practical advice on things like improving credit scores or saving for significant purchases, like a down payment for a car.

The foundation for Santi’s commitment to community service was established during her time with St. HOPE, where she actively volunteered and ran events at Sac High. These events aimed at bringing together professionals from various fields to educate and provide resources to her peers. Volunteering in her community helped shape her career and passion for empowering others.