Santiago Pérez de Manosalbas[1] (March 23, 1830 - August 5, 1900), was a Colombian educator, lawyer, diplomat, writer, journalist, and statesman who was President of the United States of Colombia between 1874 and 1876.

When the Director of Public Instruction Lorenzo María Lleras went to Zipaquirá to visit the school, he was impressed by Santiago and Felipe’s talent and potential.

In 1857 together with his brother Felipe, they established the Colegio Pérez Hermanos, a learning institution that taught such people as the linguist Rufino José Cuervo.

During the second administration of president Manuel Murillo Toro he was appointed Director of Public Instruction while also working as rector of the National University of Colombia.

In 1852, Pérez joined the Comisión Corográfica, a state funded expedition led by Agustin Codazzi whose goal was to map out the entire country and collect information on its inhabitants.

He strengthened training facilities for teachers, ordered the construction of various primary schools, and consolidated the National University of Colombia.

As president he, and members of his staff assisted the graduation ceremonies of young professionals to show support from the government.