Derrick Williams is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Mohegan Sun and has been with Mohegan for almost 30 years. He is originally from New London, Connecticut by way of Wilmington, North Carolina. Derrick attended Delaware State University where he earned a degree in marketing and later earned a master’s degree in education from Sacred Heart University. Derrick has been exposed to numerous experiences throughout his career, which has impacted him in ways that have helped him grow. Read more below about Derrick’s journey and what Black History Month means to him:

What was your path prior to working for the Sun?

“My career started in Delaware working in banking, which gave me a strong foundation in customer service and communication. When I moved back to Connecticut, I worked briefly at Foxwoods Resort Casino, which introduced me to the casino and hospitality industry. I also worked in the New London Public School System, where I taught science and coached middle school basketball. Working with youth through education and coaching was an awesome and meaningful experience. It taught me patience, leadership, and the importance of connecting with people in a real and authentic way.

Upon the opening of Mohegan Sun, I joined the marketing department. What began as an opportunity grew into a 29+ year career. Since then, I’ve had the chance to work and serve as a leader in several departments, including marketing, hotel management, transportation operations management, and presently human resources. Every role taught me something new and gave me a deeper understanding of the people who work here and the guests we serve. I’ve been blessed to lead, inspire, serve, and learn from others in every department I’ve been part of. It’s important to me that my team members feel valued and respected, and my goal every day is to help create a positive work environment where people can thrive and be their best.”

This year's Black History Month theme is "A Century of Black History Commemorations," celebrating the 100th anniversary of celebrating Black History Month. When you think of Black History Month, what comes to mind?

“When I think of Black History Month, I feel proud and inspired. As an African American, I’m proud of the many ways Black people have helped shape this country, often without the recognition they deserved at the time. Black History Month reminds me of the strength, creativity, and resilience of our community. It makes me think about the leaders who came before us, the people who pushed through challenges, and the contributions that continue to influence our world every day. This year’s theme, “Celebrating 100 years of Black History Commemorations” reminds me how important it is to honor our past and keep telling our stories.”

What does legacy mean to you?

“To me, legacy is simply the impact you leave behind. It’s about how you treat people, the support you give, and the difference you make in someone’s life. It’s what people remember about you long after you’re gone.”

What legacy do you want to leave?

“I want to leave a legacy of kindness, fairness, and opportunity. Professionally, I hope people will say that I made them feel valued and supported while helping create a workplace where everyone could belong.  My goal every day is to lift others up. I often say to my daughters, “I dare you to make someone else’s day brighter.” That’s the kind of legacy I want to leave, one built on lifting people, encouraging them, and making things better for the next person. On a personal note, I also hope my creative work leaves a mark. I love writing and producing music and I’ve been blessed to share some of my music with anyone who wants to hear it through streaming platforms like iTunes and Spotify under “D! Williams & the Gospel Family”. I also recently published a children’s Christmas book titled “Love and Life, A Melody of Christmas”, which is available on Amazon and is something I’m very proud of. I hope that my songs and stories continue to bring joy to people for years to come. At the end of the day, I just want to leave something positive behind through my work, my creativity, and the way I treat people.”

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