Five-Minute Feature: Derrick Siler, President of the Black Male Initiative

Get to know the Empire State University community through this rapid-fire interview series. What makes SUNY Empire exceptional? The diverse stories, achievements, and dreams of our students. Five minutes—starting now!  

Meet Derrick Siler, a digital media major and president of the university’s Black Male Initiative.    

What are you studying at SUNY Empire? 

I’m a digital media major with a concentration in communications and marketing. Everything I’m studying connects to storytelling, branding, and building platforms that actually move people. I genuinely feel that what I do is not just about creating content but more about creating impact. I’m intentional about learning how media shapes perception, culture, and opportunity, especially for people of color navigating professional spaces. 

What inspired you to study that subject? 

I’ve always been a creative at heart. Photography, branding, leadership, and public relations honestly all live in the same space for me. I realized that the media holds power. It’s voice. It’s legacy. Studying digital media allows me to sharpen what I already do naturally and turn it into a strategy. I understand that I’m building something sustainable, something that lasts. 

How have your experiences with the Black Male Initiative impacted you as a student? 

The Black Male Initiative has reminded me that I don’t have to navigate higher education alone. Being a man of color in an academic space can feel isolating, especially when you’re balancing leadership, work, and life. BMI has provided community, accountability, and affirmation. It’s powerful to be in spaces where excellence is expected of you, but you’re also supported as a whole person. It’s helped me stay grounded and focused on finishing strong. 

How is the Black Male Initiative celebrating Black History Month? 

This year, the Black Male Initiative is hosting a Black History Month Celebration that intentionally honors Black women in law enforcement. We are bringing together high-ranking Black female executives for a powerful panel discussion where they will share their personal journeys, the challenges they’ve faced, and the triumphs they’ve earned in a field that remains largely male-dominated. For us, celebrating Black history means being intentional about who we highlight. It means creating space for Black women leaders whose stories deserve to be heard, respected, and uplifted. This event is about visibility, representation, and continuing a legacy of excellence. 

What do you like most about SUNY Empire? 

The flexibility and the autonomy. SUNY Empire respects that many of us are adult learners, professionals, leaders, and creatives. The structure allows me to show up fully as a student, but also as someone building businesses, leading organizations, and developing professionally. It meets you where you are, but it also pushes you to elevate. 

How do you like to unwind when you’re not studying or working? 

Honestly? I create. Photography and creating content are therapy for me. I also value quiet time to reflect, journal, and reset. I’m also a gamer, so when the PS5 is on, I am locked into my peace. I work hard, so when I unplug, it’s very intentional.