The Santomero family lives in Greenwich, Conn. Chris is the third-generation owner of Lordae Management, a privately held commercial real estate company based in New York that has been family-operated since 1952. Francesca, a doctor of chiropractic medicine, previously ran her own practice in Pleasantville, N.Y., before retiring in 2001 to dedicate her time to raising their children and caring for her mother.
The Santomero twins have been involved in the Lordae family business for many years, quickly becoming integral to the company. Their interest and success in roles at Lordae Management helped guide and confirm their academic paths. Christopher is majoring in business management with a focus on finance and entrepreneurship at Fairfield’s Charles F. Dolan School of Business, and Calista is pursuing similar studies in Boston.
Looking back on the college search process, the Santomeros think their son Christopher’s experience at Fordham Preparatory School was a significant catalyst for his decision to attend Fairfield; he understood the impact of the Jesuit tradition. “Within 15 minutes of touring Fairfield University, Christopher turned to us and said this is the place for him,” said Francesca.
The Santomeros see their contributions and involvement as a meaningful way to give back, celebrate Fairfield, and embody what the Jesuit mission is all about.
As parents, they were excited to see this clarity and enthusiasm in their son, and agreed that Fairfield seemed like the right fit. “My wife and I were so pleased with what we saw and what we heard from the teachers, deans, and students,” said Chris. “We were immediately comfortable knowing that the education and influence Fairfield would have on him would be aligned with what we want for our children and family.”
Over the years, as Chris and Francesca became more familiar with opportunities, initiatives, and areas of impact within the Fairfield community, they felt inspired to deepen their involvement. Today, they are active members of the Executive Parents Leadership Council and regularly attend the Fairfield Awards Dinner, a signature event benefiting scholarships. They also support The Parents Fund and the St. Ignatius Scholarship Fund—both directly expand access, enrich the student experience, and enhance campus resources.
The Santomeros see their contributions and involvement as a meaningful way to give back, celebrate Fairfield, and embody what the Jesuit mission is all about.
As Christopher embarks on his senior year, Francesca and Chris believe more than ever that their son is in the right place. “He has taken tremendous pride in being a student at Fairfield. He recruits everyone he knows to go to Fairfield, and he speaks so highly of each and every aspect of the school,” Francesca said.
The Santomeros take great pride in the growth they’ve seen in their son—intellectually, spiritually, and personally. As Christopher prepares for the next chapter, Francesca and Chris are thankful to have participated in Fairfield’s tight-knit community with him and share in his Stag spirit.
