Elizabeth Santilli

Elizabeth Santilli serves as the Vice President of Human Resources at the University of St. Mary of the Lake (USML), providing executive leadership for the administration and operations of the Human Resources Department. In this role, she serves as the primary liaison to the Archdiocese of Chicago, ensuring alignment of human resources policies, procedures, technology, and employee services with the Archdiocese’s standards and strategic objectives.

With more than 40 years of executive leadership experience in finance and human resources, Ms. Santilli has held senior leadership positions with Fortune 50 organizations, including Walmart, Walgreens, and Cintas. Her experience spans domestic and international operations, including serving as Chief Financial Officer of a wholly owned Walmart subsidiary and leading HR service delivery supporting more than 300,000 employees. Her extensive background provides a strong foundation in organizational leadership, strategic planning, operational excellence, and employee engagement.

At USML, Ms. Santilli leads a comprehensive Human Resources function dedicated to supporting faculty, staff, and student workers throughout the employee lifecycle. The department’s responsibilities include talent acquisition and recruitment, payroll administration, employee benefits, labor and employee relations, regulatory compliance and reporting, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) administration, workers’ compensation, and employee support services.

Ms. Santilli is committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and service-oriented workplace where employees are respected, supported, and empowered to grow professionally. She believes that attracting and retaining talented individuals who embrace the University’s Mission and Vision is essential to building a vibrant and successful community.

The University of St. Mary of the Lake offers more than employment—it offers an opportunity to contribute to a mission that has formed religious leaders and served the Church for generations. Whether beginning a career or bringing years of professional experience, employees become part of a welcoming community where their talents are valued, their contributions make a meaningful impact, and their work advances the University’s mission every day.

Ms. Santilli earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and a Master of Business Administration in International Business from Texas A&M University.