Wal-Mart Invests in BDPA One Person at a Time

Globally known for helping people around the world save money and live better, Wal-Mart became a Silver Level Sponsor at this year’s 37th Annual BDPA Technology Conference & Career Fair, August 18-22, 2015 in Washington DC. Wal-Mart agreed to be the primary funding source for 25 college scholarships for the high-performing teams in this year's National BDPA High School Computer Competition.

“It is with contributions such as this that we introduced tens of thousands of students to careers in the Information Technology industry. As we celebrate BDPA's 40th Anniversary, we look forward to continued support from Wal-Mart and other interested sponsors as we literally move students ‘from the classroom to the boardroom’," said BDPA co-founder Earl Pace.

Wal-Mart’s investment in BDPA exposes African American youths and professionals to sustaining careers in Information Technology. This year’s generous contribution helps BDPA to strengthen their infrastructure through attendance at the annual Awards Gala and providing scholarships to help students improve their quality of life. Wal-Mart promotes a culture of integrity and provides resources to educate and empower associates to make ethical decisions. With fiscal year 2015 net sales of $482.2 billion, Wal-Mart employs 2.2 million associates worldwide.

Earl Pace, Jr.

Earl Pace added, "BDPA is very appreciative of this support from Wal-Mart. The students benefiting from this contribution to The Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarship Fund will continue BDPA's active participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) through its High School Computer Competition, Information Technology Showcase for high school and college students, as well as Youth Technology Conferences.”

Founded in 1975, BDPA is the premier organization for African American professionals in the information technology industry. BDPA has 46 chapters across the United States and is the largest African American Information Technology Association in the country. BDPA continues to fulfill its mission and work to bridge the digital divide by providing career growth opportunities for its members.

To become a BDPA partner or sponsor like Wal-Mart or to learn more about the BDPA National Technology Conference in Washington, D.C. as well as sponsorship opportunities, please contact BDPA Corporate Sales Team by email at corpsales@bdpa.org or 301-584-3135 x108.