For Milton Santiago, Canisius ’97, his fraternal commitment goes beyond just his home chapter at Canisius University. As the SigEp district governor for District 2, he is devoted to the brotherhood’s growth at Syracuse University and throughout the region.

Education and Career

“What attracted me to SigEp was just the idea of having a family away from home,” Milton said. His Fraternity brothers became best friends for life and greatly enriched his college experience. “That’s why I continue to be motivated to help the Fraternity be successful. It’s a way of paying that debt back.”

Milton studied communication as an undergraduate but eventually discovered a passion for filmmaking. He became a writer/producer for on-air promotion in New York City, and five years later, he began working toward a master of fine arts in cinematography at the University of Miami.

Two decades of work in the film industry taught Milton how to adjust to new teams and collaborate for group success with a shared vision, much like his SigEp experience. He also began adjunct teaching during his time in Los Angeles, and Milton’s decision to pursue education led to his current role as an assistant professor at Syracuse University.

SigEp Devotion

Milton got involved as a SigEp alumnus shortly after graduation, now heading into his 27th year as a volunteer. His service as a chapter counselor and resident scholar at SigEp chapters across the country gave him the widespread experience he needs to fulfill his district governor duties.

“My main responsibility is to make sure all our undergraduate chapters are supported by full volunteer groups. I’m primarily responsible for recruiting alumni and volunteers to engage with students, to train them and get them caught up on the latest Fraternity objectives, and to generally provide any kind of support that our volunteers need on the ground.”

Despite the ever-changing landscape of higher education and the impact of the COVID era, Milton knows that young men on college campuses still crave connections and a grounded experience. He looks forward to utilizing his volunteer position to influence Sigma Phi Epsilon’s successful return to Syracuse University with the help of committed alumni.