A tough-talking Latino gangster arrives at your workplace with the trademark baggy pants, shades, trench coat and red bandana. Within seconds you have made a determination about this man, his upbringing, even his credibility.

Society is quick to judge and stereotype based on appearance, cultural differences, even education. In the workplace, managers, supervisors and employees make some of the same speedy judgments about the people they come in contact and work with every day. How does this affect your business? What impact does it have on you and your clients? Is perception really reality?

Richard Santana, Ed.M. was born in California and became the third generation of his family to join one of the largest gangs in California. After years of hate, drugs and violence on the streets, he experienced a transformation. In 1995, Richard graduated from Harvard University Graduate School of Education, Human Development and Psychology/Risk Prevention Program.

Santana offers a valuable opportunity to understand the complexities of diversity in the workplace, in schools and in communities. His unique insight and style captivates his audiences and challenges their thinking with an interactive approach. His program may be tailored for a variety of workshops, keynotes, diversity training, communication skill groups, breakouts and question-and-answer sessions.

Richard's accomplishments and affiliations include:
• Harvard Graduate School of Education, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Masters of Education, Human Development and Psychology / Risk and Prevention.
• Graduate of California State University, Fresno, BA in Education.
• Recruiter, academic adviser and counselor for the Upward Bound Program at the University of Pacific in Stockton, California.
• Director of the improvisational theater group "Teatro de Las Cucarachas."
• Chairperson of the Chicano Youth Conference
• Organizer for The National Coalition to End Barrio Warfare.
• Director and producer of "Choices" -- a drug prevention video.
• Subject of television profile "Basic Colors."
• Assisted with two video concepts accepted by the California Attorney General's Office and also featuring Richard Santana -- "Gangs: The Turning Corner."