Get to Know: Matthew Isaac Santiago

Job title: Associate Counsel

What you actually do: Draft and review contracts for URA departments; Prepare, review, and submit legislation for City Council; Coordinate with the City to execute cooperation agreements; Handle day-to-day legal issues that arise

Years at URA: About 1.5 years

Best thing about working at the URA: Working with brilliant and friendly coworkers that have a genuine passion for serving Pittsburgh communities; Free donuts

Favorite project/Most satisfying moment in career: I honestly had a blast giving presentations on the Hatch Act and CDBG compliance. It’s always rewarding to work for weeks on a project and then show everyone what you’ve learned. And yes, I’m a nerd, why do you ask?

Education: In 2014, I received a bachelor’s degree at the University of Scranton for Biochemistry/Cell and Molecular Biology. Finding my rhetoric classes a lot more fascinating than Pathophysiology, I abandoned the med school path and attended Pitt Law for three glorious years. I graduated law school in 2018, and thank goodness that’s over!

Where you were before the URA: I came to the URA as soon as I got my bar exam results!

If you were boss for the day: I’d command everyone to bring their pets to work. Orders are orders.

The Boss says: "Matt has been a fantastic addition to the URA. He has jumped at the chance to take on some very difficult tasks, such as cooperation agreements. His even-keeled nature has also been a source of stability as the URA and the legal department have gone through transitions. I’m excited for the opportunity to work more closely with him." - Nathan Clark, URA chief legal officer

If you weren't at the URA you'd be...probably a hot shot movie director, living it up in the Hollywood Hills and cruising town with Seth Rogen.

First job: I worked in many Wilkes Barre/Scranton libraries. So yes, I’m kind of a big deal.

Favorite athlete: As a native New Yorker, I’m obligated to say Derek Jeter. In my heart of hearts, it’s tennis legend Rafael Nadal.

Favorite restaurant: Oh, Condados Tacos, as if you had to ask.

Favorite thing about Pittsburgh: Honestly, I’m helplessly addicted to the Waterfront. What don’t they have?

Any upcoming events that you are excited to attend? I just can’t wait for happy hours again.

Favorite thing to do when not at work: I go to the movie theatre every week, mostly for the meditative experience.

Secret vice: Since I’m watching movies all the time, I have a dangerous addiction to popcorn. Also, popcorn plus Buncha Crunch?! Name me a better power couple, I’ll wait.

What three words describe you best: Goofy, determined, hungry

What you’re currently watching on Netflix: The world told me to watch Tiger King, and it did not disappoint.

Three things always in your refrigerator: Eggs, La Croix, and a container of almond milk I’ll probably never finish.

Three people (living or dead) you’d like to have dinner with: Will Smith, Steve Irwin, and Zoboomafoo. Wait we said people?

Actor who would play you in a movie: My dream, Leonardo DiCaprio; My reality, Jonah Hill

People would be surprised to know that I...can fold an origami crane with my eyes closed. I was a sad child.

Family: I have two brothers named Mark and Luke. Apparently, it’s my job to have a John.

Pets: I have a stuffed bird named Jebidiah, does that count?

Contact Info: msantiago@ura.org