Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) is honored to host the Honorable Robert L. Santos, nationally recognized statistician and 26th director of the U.S. Census Bureau, for a keynote presentation, “The Importance of Being Counted: Being a Scientist.” The event will take place on September 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in Thiry Auditorium and is open to OLLU students, faculty, alumni, and the San Antonio community.

Santos made history as the first Latino to lead the Census Bureau, serving from 2022 to 2025. With more than 45 years of experience, he has advanced survey research, demographic analysis, and policy evaluation at leading institutions, including the Urban Institute, NORC at the University of Chicago, and the University of Michigan. A San Antonio native, Santos has been widely recognized for his professional achievements and contributions to public service, including awards from the American Statistical Association, the American Association for Public Opinion Research, and the Mexican government.

Robert L. Santos’ extraordinary career and his deep commitment to using data and science for the public good serve as a profound inspiration. Hosting him at OLLU provides our campus and community the opportunity to engage with a leader who embodies the importance of representation and integrity in research.

This special event reflects OLLU’s mission to empower students through education, equity, and leadership, while engaging the community in conversations that shape the future.