Norman Mays |
'My 40-Year Historical Overview'
From Alpha to Omega - beginning to end – is an age old way of telling a story or reflecting upon the life of someone or something. For my brief story, there is a definite Alpha and may there not be an Omega for ages to come.
My 40-year journey with BDPA (Black Data Processing Associates) began in 1975, when founders Mr. Earl A. Pace, Jr., and the late David Wimberley created BDPA Philadelphia Chapter. I heard about the organization from Mr. Wilbur McReynolds, a mutual friend of Earl Pace. At that time, I was a Captain in the US Army, stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland and assigned to the first official US Army organization dedicated to Computer Systems Security. After being invited to be a speaker at one of the Philadelphia Chapter’s monthly program meetings, and coming to understand the value of the mission statement, I joined BDPA in 1976, not realizing that I had begun one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
I have remained involved with BDPA for the past 39 of those 40 years because the original mission statement spoke to me.
“To accumulate a pool of data processing knowledge and business experience with the intention of utilizing these resources to strengthen the expertise of the minority members of the data processing community; offer this expertise to minorities evaluating data processing for future career / business potential; and broaden the data processing knowledge of the minority community as a whole and participate in all activities directly related thereto.”That was it for me. Throughout my 20 years of service in the US Army, my experiences have taught me that service and commitment are crucial keys to personal and organizational success.
NOTE: The current mission statement has fewer words, but still embraces the original vision.
Now, before I go any further, I want to give a standing ovation and strong kudos to those persons who over the years have volunteered their time, energy, talent, expertise, counsel and on occasion, a personal 'coin or two' while serving as: active members; committee chairpersons; chapter officers; outside directors; national officers; and any other positive support activity/position.
Some of the past National presidents |
My personal advice?
“By keeping one’s eyes on the mission and one’s heart on the people it takes to make it happen, one will rarely, if ever, go wrong.”During the early days of my membership, I served as a National Vice President, two terms as National President, founded the Washington, D.C. Chapter, founded the Cleveland Chapter, and helped other chapters form to enter the BDPA family. As of this writing, I am still actively involved in BDPA Cleveland Chapter.
So here is a question: What is your commitment to the mission and vision of BDPA and how are you serving?
Throughout the years, BDPA and our members have been recognized for their accomplishments, via many media sources. One special media source has been the Diversity Careers in Engineering & Information Technology Magazine.
I have selected two issues for you to review online.
- You can go to: www.diversitycareers.com. There you will see their last issue (December 2014/January 2015); however, their previous issues are available by selecting the link “Click here for Digital Edition”, then select the “Archives” tab near the upper right corner.
- My specific selections are: [“October/November 2010”, pages 90, 91 & 93 and100 & 101] -- highlights from our 2010 National Conference and Career Fair.
- The next selection is: [“October/ November 2012”, pages 93 to 96 and 98 & 99] – it highlights the work of Dr. Jesse Bemley and Kevin Robinson as part of the STEM portion of our high school student program.
- Additionally, the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF), born out of BDPA, is highlighted on pages 100 & 101 of the same issue. They are comprised of senior level IT professionals whose role has been to mentor members seeking greater career responsibilities.
Dr. Jesse Bemley |
Dr. Demo Solaru |
There is so much more that could be said about the past 40 years – the outstanding people, programs and events that have occurred in our local chapters is a story all by itself. The corporate support has been fantastic. Participation in the annual BDPA Career Fairs has been great. I love the coffee cups and pens! I understand the business case and many members have elevated their careers through BDPA. Kudos to each of you!
Earl Pace, Jr. |
In closing, I think it’s only fitting that we recognize our co-founder, Mr. Earl A. Pace, Jr. for all the work he has done over these past 40 years. Along with your blood, sweat and tears, BDPA has been elevated to the high levels of credibility. For example, Mr. Pace was inducted into the CompTIA Information Technology Hall of Fame in 2011, joining the likes of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs.
Please remember – WE – All of us are BDPA. So don’t hesitate to flash a warm smile and give a Big BDPA Family Hug as often as you can.
Much love to everyone. WOW! It’s been an awesome 40 years!!
Norman Mays, Past President
National BDPA
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