Sunday, October 29, 2017

Tracy Edmonds Uses Her Wanda Everett Scholarship at Hampton University

Daugherty Business Solutions offered the first annual Wanda Everett Scholarship this year to two students. One of the scholars is Tracy Edwards who plans to use her scholarship as a student at Hampton University.

Tracy Edwards, is a junior physics major at Hampton University. She currently works as a research assistant at The Hampton University Cancer Research Center. Using bioinformatics, the focus of Tracy's research is the identification of breast cancer predisposition DNA repair variants among women with breast cancer and its relation to ancestry. Tracy completed a total of three internships thus far. The first being in Optical Radiology at Washington University in St. Louis, where she received her first publication in the The Journal of Biomedical Optics. During the last two academic years, Tracy interned at Vanderbilt University in the Biophotonics laboratory. As a career, Tracy's goal is to earn a doctoral degree in Medical physics advancing techniques used in cancer therapy.

We asked Tracy to share her thoughts on Daugherty Business Solutions
:

Tracy Edwards * Everett Scholar (2017)
"Before the beginning of the academic school year, I was invited to visit the Daugherty Business solutions office located in St. Louis, MO. As an awardee of the Wanda Everett BDPA Scholarship, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the members of the corporation that knew her best. During my visit, I meet with Sarah Chapin who did a wonderful job explaining to me the history of the corporation as well as introducing me to the entire staff. As a whole, the team was very open and welcoming. I was even exposed to future internship and philanthropic aspects of the company that I can potentially partake in. In all my visit increased my gratitude for their financial support in my education and I look forward to working with them in the future."

BDPA is blessed to have such a young and talented student as a winner of the Wanda Everett Scholarship for BDPA Students. We look forward to supporting Tracy's career as she seeks to advance her career in the medical industry

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Grant Proposal: New York Life Foundation (BDPA New York)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) worked closely with the officers of the BDPA New York chapter to submit a grant proposal to New York Life Foundation seeking $5,000 for the 2018 Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program. We hope to have an answer within the next couple of months.

BETF is willing to work with any of the 46 local BDPA chapters to obtain the funding that they need to successfully deliver their 2018 SITES program. Simply reach out to the BETF executive director if you have questions or wish to discuss further.

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

Bemley Scholar Cameron Reaves Begins STEM-Based Education at Harvard University

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to announce that Cameron Reaves will use the Bemley Scholarship awarded all the members of the BDPA Atlanta High School Computer Competition (HSCC) team with a $5,000 college scholarship at Harvard University. He earned three Bemley Scholarships based on his work at the High School Computer Competition at the 2014 ($500), 2015 ($2,000) and 2016 ($2,500) BDPA Technology Conferences.

We asked Cameron to share his thought about BDPA with us:

Cameron Reaves * Bemley Scholar
"My name is Cameron Reaves and I am a freshman at Harvard University studying Computer Science and Environmental Science. I am from Duluth, GA and participated in four years of BDPA, beginning right when I started high school. I hope to combine my two interests to impact the energy/environmental sector using computing problem solving skills and technology expertise. I am currently planning to attend graduate school after college to earn a PHD, but anything can happen!

My involvement with BDPA was pivotal in my growth as a student and also my decision to pursue STEM. I have always been a big reader, so I loved literature and history (and still do). Prior to BDPA, I had no experience coding or learning about computers, so I probably would have continued down the path I was more familiar with. However, my father brought me to an introductory meeting my freshman year, and after that I joined the Atlanta Chapter and didn't look back! I am thankful for my time spent in the program and the many individuals I met. In the future, I hope to remain apart of the organization, volunteering to share its wonderful benefits to kids who were just like me.:

BDPA is blessed to have such a young and talented student as a winner of the Bemley Scholarship. We look forward to supporting Cameron's career as he seeks to advance in the technology industry!

Sunday, October 22, 2017

Program Meeting: 'Behind the Scene of Indy Women in Tech' (BDPA Indianapolis)

Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA) Indianapolis October Meeting “Behind the Scene of Indy Women in Tech with former Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard” was attended by over 250 invitees, including a sizable number of women at Lilly Corporate Center in Downtown.

Mayor Ballard joined a moderated session to share vision, mission and programs of Indy Women In Tech (IWIT) and synergies between BDPA and IWIT.
BDPA National President-Elect Terry Morris, BDPA Board members, world renowned artist and interfaith leader and winners of numerous international and national awards Kanwal Prakash Singh (KP), Accenture Accounts Executive and Asian American Alliace Board member Rupal Thanawala, Lilly Chief Information Officer Dr Aarti Shah and tennis professional Parveen Kumar were among those who attended the meeting. Mrs Rupal Thanawala was the moderater.

Mr Ballard explained various schemes, including awarding scholarships to deserving ones, to promote region’s standing in the science and technology industries. He emphasized on narrowing the gap between men and women entering science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers remain one of his top priorities. Regarding the STEM exposure, Mr Ballard recalled that 600 girls from six Indian Public Schools and Warren Township Schools got the STEM exposure at the "Ignite Your Superpower" event hosted by Indy Women in Tech through a partnership with Women and Hi Tech and Conner Prairie in Indianapolis University in August.

Women are really doing good job in their fields. But we want to make sure that these young girls have opportunity in future. Middle level is very important because it is the pipeline and these young girls become women of tomorrow. If the women are not entering into tech, problem of filling the open tech job opportunities will go somewhere else.

The BDPA Indianapolis Chapter, is one of over 45 chapters across the country that is established to fulfill the mission of our National organization, aims to advance IT professionals’, entrepreneurs’ and students’ careers from the classroom to the boardroom. The chapter provides opportunities to promote professional development and administer student programs to help high school students gain knowledge, skills and competitive experiences in Information Technology.

Read the full article on Punjab News Express.

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Grant Proposal: SAS Institute (BDPA Triangle)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) worked closely with the officers of the BDPA Triangle chapter to submit a grant proposal to SAS Institute seeking $15,000 for the 2018 Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program. We hope to have an answer within the next couple of months.

BETF is willing to work with any of the 46 local BDPA chapters to obtain the funding that they need to successfully deliver their 2018 SITES program. Simply reach out to the BETF executive director if you have questions or wish to discuss further.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Monsanto Scholar: Basheer Becerra (Illinois State University)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to announce that Monsanto awarded a $2,500 college scholarship to four (4) students. One of those students is Basheer Becerra who will use the scholarship at Illinois State University.

Basheer is an undergraduate student at Illinois State University pursuing a degree in Computer Science. He is majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Biological Sciences and Mathematics. His career goal is to contribute to the field of Bioinformatics either in the industry or in academic research at a university. He has been working as an IT intern at State Farm for two years, doing academic research in bioinformatics for one year. Basheer volunteered for BDPA Central Illinois High School Computer Competition (HSCC) as an IT mentor for two years.

We asked Basheer to share his thoughts on BDPA with us. He wrote,

Basheer Becerra * Monsanto Scholar
"Since October 2015, I have been a volunteer for BDPA by mentoring high school students in the HSCC program. Initially, volunteering for BDPA was for the fulfillment of teaching other students what I know about computer science. Although after two years, my purpose in volunteering has manifested into something greater, which is providing the gift of education and knowledge to underrepresented groups in hopes of inspiring young students about the field of information technology.

When I was in junior high, I had a curiosity in creating new technologies and software. However, I had no mentor to teach or inspire me, therefore, it was difficult to explore this interest. It was not until high school where I had an excellent teacher who allowed me to fully realize my potential in information technology. As I volunteer in BDPA, I am fulfilled to be that mentor I wish I had when I was younger as I know I am allowing these students to see their future in information technology, just as my teacher has allowed me to see mine. While one example of someone who seeks to inspire underrepresented individuals can make a significant impact, it is an organization like BDPA who consists of like-minded members that, together, can change society.

Perhaps my most memorable experience was at the BDPA Disrupt 2017 Conference last summer. I had the opportunity to ask other members how they contribute to their community, and ask high school students about their college and career plans. These last two years have been a fulfilling experience, and I am excited to continue this experience throughout the future."


BDPA is blessed to have such a young and talented student as a winner of the Monsanto Scholarship. We look forward to supporting Basheer's career as he seeks to advance in the technology industry!

Friday, October 13, 2017

Human Capital Logistics Scholarship for Brandi Taylor Used at Claflin University

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to administer the Human Capital Logistics (HCL) Scholarship for BDPA Students. BDPA Greater Columbia student member Brandi Taylor won the scholarship and plans to use it to continue her studies at Claflin University. The HCL Scholarship recognizes outstanding BDPA Greater Columbia student members, with an interest in information technology, who make significant contributions to society. Applicants must excel academically, show exceptional leadership potential, and make an impact on their communities through service to others. Applicants must be financially current members of the BDPA Greater Columbia chapter.

HCL Scholar * Brandi Taylor
Brandi is a senior Biology major at Claflin University and will graduate with honors in May 2018. We asked her to share her thoughts on BDPA:

One of the most memorable moments while participating in BDPA was competing in the BDPA IT Showcase. The IT Showcase provided me with foundations for conducting research and communicating my findings with others. I utilized the skills that BDPA taught me to conduct and present research in the Scientific community. My goal is to attend Podiatry school to pursue a doctoral degree in podiatry. Within the next 20 years, I want to open my own franchise of clinics that assist in the expansion of podiatry health care to underprivileged families across the world. In addition, she wants to open free health clinics that promote healthy lifestyles for the African American community."


HCL is owned and operated by BDPA member Phyllis Coleman. Phyllis is a long-time supporter of BDPA ... including her service as past president of BDPA Greater Columbia chapter. It is wonderful to see BDPA entrepreneurs and small business owners reaching back to 'make a difference' with our young people.

We hope that other BDPA business owners will find a way to support our young people with either scholarships or sponsored memberships. Contact BETF executive director if you have questions or wish to discuss further.

Thursday, October 12, 2017

Brandon Ellis Will Use Johnson & Johnson Scholarship at University of Memphis

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to announce that Johnson & Johnson awarded a $2,500 college scholarship to nine (9) students. One of those students is Brandon Ellis from Memphis, TN who will use the scholarship to support his study of computer science at University of Memphis.

We asked Brandon to share his thoughts on his education and BDPA:

JnJ Scholar * Brandon Ellis
"I am a past Computational Chemistry research assistant, and currently develop for iOS and the Microsoft Hololens. I served as the vice president of BDPA Memphis, and currently work with the Memphis Orange Mound App Committee. My goal for the year is to receive grant funding for thermography and artificial intelligence (AI) integration for the Hololens, as well as prepare for my upcoming summer internship at Johnson & Johnson as a Software Engineer. After graduating, I plan on attending graduate school to further my understanding of AI and its applications to real world situations.

BDPA has given me an experience like no other. A passionate BDPA evangelist and great friend of mine, as well as our advisor, gave me the opportunity to help bring BDPA back to Memphis. Over the past year, we’ve had the pleasure of introducing BDPA to members of our community ranging from elementary students to professionals across multiple fields. BDPA gave me the foundation I needed to discover what I was meant to do. From having the opportunity to compete and place in the BDPA Mobile Application Showcase, to landing me my first internship opportunity, BDPA has been there for me the entire way. Here’s to bringing that joy and opportunity to many others."

BDPA is blessed to have such a young and talented student as a winner of the Johnson & Johnson Scholarship. We look forward to supporting Brandon's career as he seeks to start career in technology!

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Grant Proposal: C Spire (BDPA Cincinnati)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) worked closely with the officers of the BDPA Cincinnati chapter to submit a grant proposal to C Spire seeking $5,000 for the 2018 Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program. We hope to have an answer within the next couple of months.

BETF is willing to work with any of the 46 local BDPA chapters to obtain the funding that they need to successfully deliver their 2018 SITES program. Simply reach out to the BETF executive director if you have questions or wish to discuss further.

Sunday, October 8, 2017

Monsanto Scholar: Zaire Wade (Norfolk State University)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to announce that Monsanto awarded a $2,500 college scholarship to four (4) students. One of those students is Zaire Wade who will use the scholarship at Norfolk State University. Zaire is a Computer Science Engineer major who is a highly intrigued in gaining experience in the fields of engineering, artificial intelligence, and data science. He is dedicated Honor’s College Scholar who looks forward to completing his senior year and graduating from Norfolk State University in the spring of 2018.

Monsanto Scholar: Zaire Wade
Zaire is focused on continuing his education and obtaining his long-term career goals. His two years of research experience at the University of Chicago have afforded him the opportunity to prepare for graduate school. My research experience presented the opportunity to exercise innovation within his field, by engineering and analyzing methods to expand battery life on computing systems. As a result, he is passionate to pursue a Master’s of Science in Engineering and Technology Entrepreneurship. Once completing his graduate academic career, Zaire aims to have a long-term professional career in technology entrepreneurship; innovating cutting-edge technology that will ensure the cybersecurity of individuals.

The opportunity to accept Monsanto scholarship has been a tremendous assistance for Zaire to obtain his degree. We asked Zaire to share his testimonial on BDPA:

"My involvement in the career-related organization Black Data Processing Association has particularly strengthened skills to obtain my long-term career goals. My most memorable BDPA moment was truly the day I was introduced to the association by a representative at the 2015 Black Engineer of the Year Award Conference; as I was introduced to individuals who seek to spread a culture of excellence within the African American science, technology, engineering and mathematics community. On this day, I began to build an essential network of professionals working in or having an interest in the Computer Science and Information Technology fields."

BDPA is blessed to have such a young and talented student as a winner of the Monsanto Scholarship. We look forward to supporting Zaire's career as he seeks to advance in the technology industry!

Friday, October 6, 2017

FCA Scholar: Gerald Curtis (South University Online)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is proud to announce that Fiat Chrysler Automobile awarded a $2,500 college scholarship to four (4) students. One of those students is Gerald Curtis who attends South University Online.

When asked to share his thoughts on being a FCA scholar, Gerald wrote,

Gerald Curtis
"I am 40 years old and I currently live in Warren, MI. I am a Security Site Supervisor for U.S. Security Associates, the second largest security corporation in America. I am also a current student at South University Online Piedmont Community College (very well-known for their IT, Nursing and Criminal Justice programs). I've been a member of the BDPA Detroit High School Computer Competition team since 2015. They are an excellent bunch to get to know and are a great source to have not only on my resume but to get to know as new and interesting people.

When I first learned about the BDPA, I was already in South University as an Information technology student with quite a bit of experience in computers. When I received my first invite from the BDPA HSCC team, I was hesitant at first. I thought to myself here is another group waiting for me to send them money that I don’t have to enter but as time went along I learned you never should judge a book by its cover so I researched the program and found out many talented future leaders were with them that are now doctors, lawyers and in my case the best IT professionals on the planet came from BDPA. They seemed to be the best program for using my new skills and opportunities to network with other IT professionals. What I thought would be something of another group that was just there to enhance their program turned into a life changing experience.

I can't put into words how much I grew as an IT professional, but just as a person interacting with an organization that had a family feel to it. There are a lot great outcomes about being in BDPA. You learn how to be apart of a team, have leadership skills, how to mentor others about their careers, networking skills and IT skills. I’m glad Chrysler came up with this program. It really is heaven sent that teaches a student most importantly to have confidence in themselves and their abilities. The sky is the limit.

I hope that by sharing my experiences and knowledge with other students that it will help them to see that everyone needs a good education. If you want something bad enough go after it. Shoot for your hopes and dreams, push beyond your limitations and press towards the high mark for the prize. I thank BDPA for all they have done to make this experience a great one to all the people. I send a very special thank you from my heart."

BDPA is blessed to have such a talented technology student on board as a winner of the FCA Scholarship. We look forward to supporting Gerald's career as he seeks to advance in the technology industry!

Tuesday, October 3, 2017

Grant Proposal: L Brands Foundation (BDPA New York)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) worked closely with the officers of the BDPA New York chapter to submit a grant proposal to L Brands Foundation seeking $5,000 for the 2018 Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program. We hope to have an answer within the next couple of months.

BETF is willing to work with any of the 46 local BDPA chapters to obtain the funding that they need to successfully deliver their 2018 SITES program. Simply reach out to the BETF executive director if you have questions or wish to discuss further.