Saturday, June 28, 2014

Teach For America Builds on Its BDPA Success

Teach For America (TFA) agreed to staff a BDPA career fair booth for the second year in a row. TFA believes that one day, all children in this nation will have the opportunity to attain an excellent education. Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding top college graduates, graduate students, and professionals who commit two years to teach in low-income urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in expanding educational opportunity for all. Their mission is to build the movement to eliminate educational inequity by enlisting our nation's most promising future leaders in the effort.

BDPA is proud to know that one of our High School Computer Competition (HSCC) alums, Okwudili Udeh, accepted a job offer with TFA shortly after visiting them at last year's career fair in Washington DC. Okwudili, who used his Bemley scholarship towards his education at Ithaca College, is coming onto his first-year anniversary as a QA analyst with Teach For America.

TFA evolved its relationship over the past year at the local level as well. The group provides STEM-based training for young high school students in the Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program implemented by our BDPA New York chapter. Members of the TFA team have been instrumental in preparing these young people from New York to perform at the national BDPA HSCC taking place next month in Indianapolis.

TFA leveraged its relationship with BDPA to achieve a powerful return-on-investment. The value proposition for them worked so well in 2013 ... that they are eager to return to the annual BDPA Technology Conference being held on August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

'Black Faces in White Places' Author Randal Pinkett Will Keynote BDPA Conference

Dr. Randal Pinkett, founder, Chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a multimillion-dollar management consulting and information technology solutions firm headquartered in Newark, NJ., will give the keynote address at the 36th annual National BDPA Technology Conference on August 7, 2014 in Indianapolis.

Nationally distinguished as the only African American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University, Dr. Pinkett was selected among over one million applicants to compete for the opportunity to run one of Donald Trump’s companies as part of 'The Apprentice', the reality television show.  He earned that opportunity with his victory in 2005.

Dr. Pinkett has been recognized by USA TODAY newspaper as one of the top 20 scholars in the country, and was featured on nationally televised programs such as The Today Show, Live with Kelly and Michael and Nightline. Governor Jon Corzine (D-NJ) identified Dr. Pinkett on his political shortlist as a running mate in New Jersey gubernatorial campaign.

Dr. Pinkett successfully launched the “Campaign to Redefine the Game,” which represents a call to action for Americans to level the playing field in the 21st century workplace. He is one of the most highly sought-after keynote speakers in the nation. Dr. Pinkett is the author of several books including 'Black Faces in White Places' (10 Best Books of 2010); 'No-Money Down CEO: How to Start Your Dream Business with Little or No Cash' and 'Campus CEO: The Student Entrepreneur’s Guide to Launching a Multimillion-Dollar Business'.



Revered for his contributions to the world of information technology, Dr. Pinkett received the Information Technology Senior Management Forum’s Beacon Award, the National Society of Black Engineers’ Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the National Urban League’s Business Excellence Award. He served as a brand ambassador for AMTRAK, Verizon Communications, and Outback Steakhouse. He has also served as a national spokesperson for Autism Speaks, National Black MBA Association, MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneurs Series, New Jersey Reads, Junior Achievement of New York, Minority Information Technology Consortium and Black Data Processing Associates.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

WellPoint Joins BDPA as Silver Level Sponsor

BDPA Students at WellPoint Booth
Recognized as one of the largest health care benefits companies in America, WellPoint, recently joined the growing list of leading corporate giants as a Silver Level Sponsor for the 36th annual National BDPA Technology Conference in Indianapolis on August 5-9, 2014.
On behalf of the National BDPA Leadership team and its stakeholders, it is my honor and privilege to welcome WellPoint as a Silver Level Sponsor. We thank WellPoint for their commitment and contribution. It is with the support of sponsors like WellPoint that allows BDPA to continue forward with our mission to impact our member’s lives through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” reported Dr. Craig Brown, National BDPA president.
BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. For almost 40 years, BDPA has fulfilled its mission by bridging the digital divide and providing career growth opportunities for its members. Currently, there are 46 local chapters across the United States.

Nationally recognized as one of the largest health benefits companies in America, WellPoint ranked 29th on this year's DiversityInc Top 50 Companies list. This marks WellPoint's seventh consecutive appearance on that list, which includes companies from a wide range of industries whose leadership, procurement practices, communications and training best reflect the reality of the rapidly changing face of America. With more than 67 million people served by WellPoint, including approximately 36 million enrolled in its family of health plans, WellPoint makes a real difference in meeting the needs of its diverse customers.
Patrick McIntyre
At WellPoint, we believe in the power of diversity and its role in enhancing our competitive edge,” said Patrick McIntyre, Senior Vice President of Health Care Analytics at WellPoint. “We are committed to recruiting top talent, fostering an environment of inclusion, and developing the careers of our associates. We are grateful to BDPA for leading us to talent with varied backgrounds, experiences and skills that contribute to our company’s success,” he added.
To become a sponsor like WellPoint, or to learn more about BDPA National Conference and sponsorship opportunities, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108).

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Long Story Short: Will Smith (BDPA Southern Minnesota)

Will Smith is senior project manager with Mayo Clinic. He is an experienced information technology (IT) professional who has managed multimillion dollar projects through all phases of the IT project life cycle. Will has in-depth knowledge in cost management, risk management, time management, and integration management and a proven ability to deliver high quality IT products and services on schedule and under budget.

In August 2013, Will took on responsibilities as president of our BDPA Southern Minnesota chapter. This isn't a minor chore as this small chapter in Rochester, MN has a powerful legacy in BDPA folklore! Will is attracting new volunteers and funding ... and he is planning an aggressive schedule of programs and services for both students and IT professionals in Rochester. His chapter is currently the 16th largest in the nation.

Will Smith
This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Will to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'
  1. Favorite way to exercise? - My favorite way to exercise is to play basketball.
  2. Least favorite chore? - My least favorite chore is shoveling snow.
  3. Simple things that make you happiest? - The simple thing that makes me the happiest is spending time with my family.
  4. Who you'd like to meet? - I would like to meet President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Eric Schmidt (Google), Tim Cook (Apple), Bill Russell and Melissa Harris-Perry.
I wonder if Barack, Michelle, Eric, Tim, Bill or Melissa might show up at our 36th annual BDPA Technology Conference on August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis to surprise Will?

Monday, June 23, 2014

Premier Event Management Connects BDPA to C-Level Executives

BDPA is pleased to announced that Premier Event Management is a corporate sponsor. Premier Event Management is one of the nation’s leading conference producers and is at the forefront of producing IT driven conferences throughout North America. Their mission is to bring together all corners of the technology world, cultivate relationships and advance the IT community through the sharing of ideas. Premier brings together many of the world’s largest IT suppliers and IT executives to create a beneficial atmosphere for all.

Marc Di Francisco
BDPA Philadelphia chapter leaders Eileen Gadsden and Monique Berry recently attended a CIO Conference hosted by Premier Event Management. They met a number of IT leaders that agree with the BDPA mission of advancing the careers of African Americans in the IT industry from the classroom to the boardroom.

It is worth noting that Mark Di Francisco, Premier Event Management president, is the honorary chair of the 36th annual BDPA Technology Conference being held August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis.

To become a sponsor like Premier Event or to learn more about BDPA sponsorship opportunities, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108)

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Tech Expresso Cafe', 6/22/2014 (Josephine Reed)

BDPA Atlanta chapter has been working throughout the year to retake the national High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championship. Josephine Reed (Evans Technology) shares her passion and vision for her volunteer efforts in developing the STEM-based training of high school students in Atlanta. She sees magic in the future of our young people and it is evident throughout her interview with Tech Expresso Cafe co-founders David Blackman and Jacqueline Sanders.

Take a moment to enjoy the interview:

Popular Self Help Internet Radio with Tech Expresso Cafe on BlogTalkRadio

Josephine Reed
There are some great insights about team-building and some of the other serendipitous benefits of working with young people in the Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program.   

We encourage all of our blog readers to help Josephine raise college scholarships for her HSCC students!

BDPA Legend Francisco Nunez on Entrepreneurship

Francisco Nunez has a powerful legacy within BDPA! He was a 5-time participant in the annual High School Computer Competition. He won a number of BDPA scholarships to help finance his 4-year career at Morehouse College. BDPA Atlanta chapter honored him last month on his graduation from college.

As such we are pleased to share his video message laying out his current entrepreneurial activities. Reach out and support this young squire if you have time or inclination.


Saturday, June 21, 2014

BDPA Career Fair Opens August 8-9, 2014

Each year BDPA Technology Conference and Career Fair is attended by the BDPA membership from across the USA. This annual conference includes mentorship of young professionals, seminars on new technologies, keynote speaker and more.

The Career Fair is free and open to all professionals interested in computer science and IT careers. Meet and network with other industry professionals and leaders from Fortune 1000 organizations. Be sure to upload your resume when registering, so employers can get a sneak peek at you before the conference!

Register now ... it's FREE!

Some of the participating Career Fair vendors include:
  1. Accenture
  2. BlueCross BlueShield of IL, MT, NM, OK & TX
  3. Deloitte
  4. Eli Lilly and Company
  5. Fifth Third Bank
  6. Hilton Worldwide
  7. Johnson & Johnson
  8. Mayo Clinic
  9. MillerCoors
  10. Monsanto
  11. National Security Agency
  12. NextEra Energy
  13. Oracle
  14. Prudential Financial
  15. RYAN Consulting Group
  16. State Farm
  17. Travelers
  18. University of Phoenix
  19. US Air Force
  20. WellPoint
  21. Wells Fargo
To learn more about BDPA sponsorship opportunities or to purchase space on the Career Fair floor, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108).

Friday, June 20, 2014

Monsanto Moves Up to Silver Level Sponsor of BDPA

On behalf of the National Board of Directors and the National Executive Committee, it is my honor and privilege to welcome Monsanto as a Silver Level Sponsor for the 2014 National Conference,” said Dr. Craig Brown, National BDPA president. “It is only possible to provide the support our members receive through relationships and sponsorships through organizations like Monsanto. It is my pleasure to announce this sponsorship and the BDPA family thanks Monsanto for their support,” he added. 
The 36th annual National BDPA Technology Conference is set for August 5-9, 2014BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. For almost 40 years, BDPA has fulfilled its mission by bridging the digital divide by providing career growth opportunities for its members.
Today, we are the largest African American Information Technology association in the U.S., and the largest national non-profit organization continually involved in training students underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineer, and Mathematics education across the country,” Dr. Brown added.
Founded in 1901, Monsanto believers in sustainable agriculture, human rights and corporate giving and are focused on empowering farmers-large and small-to produce more from their land, while conserving more of our world’s natural resources such as water and energy. Named as one of the ‘100 Best Corporate Citizens’ by CR Magazine, Monsanto announced plans for a $400 million expansion of Chesterfield Valley Research Center, including addition of 675 jobs over the next three years. Monsanto received the ‘Gulf Guardian Award’ from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Gulf of Mexico Program for the company’s Mississippi River Watershed Partnership.
Vincent Shorter, Monsanto director said, “At Monsanto, we continue to value the relationship with BDPA. We have evolved our commitment by offering $10,000 in scholarships. Whether it’s the High School Computer Competition, working with local chapter officers to increase memberships, or supporting local events like the annual “Learn to Play Golf” event, we at Monsanto value our relationship with BDPA. We look forward to a growing relationship in which we have people walking the halls at Monsanto as a result of our relationship with BDPA.”



Monsanto has been a momentous sponsor of the BDPA St. Louis chapter for many years. It is an honor that the organization expanded their sponsorship at the national level so more BDPA members have the opportunity to benefit from this wonderful corporation,” said Dwana Franklin-Davis, BDPA St. Louis president.
To become a sponsor like Monsanto or to learn more about BDPA’s National Conference or other sponsorship opportunities, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108)

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Hilton Worldwide Returns as Bronze Sponsor for BDPA

Hilton Worldwide is back on board as a major sponsor of the 36th annual National BDPA Technology Conference on August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis. In addition the global hotel chain seeks to recruit diverse information technology talent through the BDPA Job Board.
"On behalf of the National BDPA leadership team and its stakeholders, it is my honor and privilege to welcome Hilton Worldwide as a Bronze Level Sponsor and thank them for their contribution. It is with the support of sponsors like Hilton Worldwide that National BDPA is able to impact lives through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” said Dr. Craig Brown, National BDPA President.
Known worldwide for his corporate responsibility, creating opportunities, strengthening communities, celebrating cultures, living suitability, and partnerships, Conrad N. Hilton began with a 40-room hotel in a small Texas town in 1919. Today, Hilton Worldwide is the world's preeminent hospitality company, stretching across 24 time zones. As of 2014, Hilton brands encompass 4,112 hotels with over 680,117 rooms in 91 countries and more than 300,000 team members across corporate offices.
Dr. Craig Brown
BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. For almost 40 years, BDPA has fulfilled its mission by bridging the digital divide and providing career growth opportunities for its members. Currently, there are 46 local chapters across the United States.
Today, we are the largest African American Information Technology association in the U.S., and the largest national non-profit organization continually involved in training students underrepresented in STEM education across the country,” Dr. Brown added.
To become a sponsor like Hilton Worldwide or to learn more about BDPA sponsorship opportunities, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108).

What is Juneteenth?

Originally posted on 6/19/2008.

The discussion about the African American flag created by UNIA and Marcus Garvey reminded me of other dates on the calendar that impact African Americans differently than others in this country. For example, I wonder every year on the birthday of our nation ...why do Blacks celebrate July 4th?

It is historically accurate to recall that nothing about Independence Day back in 1776 brought a smile to the people of African descent living in America. White folks were ecstatic to overturn the yoke of the monarchy ... but, they weren't so ecstatic that they let go of the whips and chains used to enslave African Americans. Just a random thought floating thru the village today.

On the other hand, African Americans in most of the country do take time on Juneteenth to celebrate independence.

What is Juneteenth? Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration of the ending of slavery. Dating back to 1865, it was on June 19th that the Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that all slaves were now free. Note that this was two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863.

The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact on the Texans due to the minimal number of Union troops to enforce the new Executive order. However, with the surrender of General Lee in April of 1865, and the arrival of General Granger's regiment, the forces were finally strong enough to influence and overcome the resistance.

Later attempts to explain this two and a half year delay in the receipt of this important news have yielded several versions that have been handed down through the years. Often told is the story of a messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom. Another, is that the news was deliberately withheld by the slave masters to maintain the labor force on the plantations. And still another, is that federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. All or neither could be true. For whatever the reason, conditions in Texas remained status quo well beyond what was statutory.

Click here to learn more about Juneteenth if you have time/inclination. We encourage you to share more on this aspect of Ourstory as part of the Juneteenth 2008 celebration.

For now, I encourage you to share your comments on the significance of either June 19th or July 4th in your part of the diaspora? What say u?

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

MillerCoors Sponsors BDPA for Third Year in a Row

MillerCoors is passionate about beer and the beer business. MillerCoors demonstrated its passion for BDPA programs and services when it made the commitment for the third year in a row to become a corporate sponsor ... this time at the Gold Level. The company investment in 2014 supports a number of the events at the 36th annual National BDPA Technology Conference on August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis.
Craig Brown
Dr. Craig Brown, National BDPA president stated, "On behalf of the National BDPA leadership team and its stakeholders, it is my honor and privilege to welcome MillerCoors as a Gold Level Sponsor. We thank MillerCoors for their commitment, continued support and contributions. It is the support of sponsors like MillerCoors that allows BDPA to continue forward with our mission to impact our members’ lives through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)."
MillerCoors has a strong leadership team and dedicated, hard-working people who are committed to building great beer brands the right way. The company is focused on creating big ideas and innovations that drive profitable growth and will help create a new era in the American beer industry. Their workplace philosophy is simple: Contribute your best with confidence, grow your career, and together help to create America’s best beer company.
Norman Fleming and past BDPA president Monique Berry
Norman Fleming, MillerCoors senior director said, "MillerCoors is committed to hiring the best multicultural talent in the market, and we know that National BDPA produces the best talent in the Information Technology field."
BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. For almost 40 years, BDPA has fulfilled its mission by bridging the digital divide and providing career growth opportunities for its members. BDPA is also the largest national non-profit organization continually involved in training students underrepresented in STEM education across the country.
Pamela Sexton
BDPA conference director, Pamela Sexton said, "National BDPA is elated with the sponsorship renewal from MillerCoors. It's wonderful to have a company of this caliber as a trusted partner year after year. I enjoy the collaboration and support provided by MillerCoors during conference planning and throughout the year to bring BDPA forward. Thank you MillerCoors for your continued partnership."
Over 8,000 employees at MillerCoors 8,134 work together as a single team to exceed any challenges or expectations. A number of those employees are active with local BDPA chapters in both Chicago and Milwaukee.
"BDPA and MillerCoors are committed to developing the IT professional from the classroom to the boardroom. BDPA believes this is a ‘Best of Class’ professional development model that our members can benefit from,” stated Carmen Giles, BDPA Milwaukee chapter president.
To become a sponsor like MillerCoors, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135 x108).