2018-2019 National BDPA President is Terry Morris (Eli Lilly and Company)

BDPA is pleased to introduce Terry Morris as the BDPA National President! Terry Morris has been a leader in technology at Eli Lilly and Company and an Indianapolis community servant since arriving nearly 17 years ago. At Lilly, he has been a strong technology advocate and leader in transitional areas such as Next Generation Develop. In addition to his core responsibilities, he has been a champion and leader in the people development and diversity efforts of Information Technology.

Terry, a Florida A&M University graduate, has been very engaged in various civic entities, such as Mt. Zion Apostolic Church where he serves as a trustee and leader for strategy and operations. Terry has been a member of BDPA for a decade, and most recently served as the Indianapolis chapter president (2014-16), helping to raise over $100k for high school and college student scholarship and program sponsorship. Terry has also been helping to transform the Indianapolis community by servicing on the Board of Directors for the Center for Congregations and the IUPUI Informatics Diversity-Enhanced Workforce Advisory Board.

Terry’s plan and vision for BDPA in 2018 are geared to both strengthen and transform BDPA by reshaping the experience of its constituency.



BDPA’s priorities are all about new experiences, growth in our strategic partnerships, and a strengthened operations. These goals can only be accomplished by transforming the way that we engage. Terry’s new endeavors such as tech talks, leadership discussions, and career dialogue on the 2nd and 4th Friday’s of every month do just that. BDPA is excited for the growth and transformation that lie ahead under the leadership of its new National President.

Long Story Short: Victor Montgomery (BDPA Atlanta)

Victor Montgomery (State Farm) is the chapter president of BDPA Atlanta.   BDPA Atlanta is the 5th largest BDPA chapter in the nation.  Victor is an innovative, forward thinking Information Technology (IT) leader, with over eleven years of IT experience.

A graduate of Illinois State University, Victor obtained his Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems in 2004. He joined State Farm in 2004 starting his career as a mainframe programmer. Victor is currently pursuing his Masters of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is very excited to be a part of the Georgia community helping to move IT forward. Victor and his wife, Malikah, have one daughter and two sons: Nailah, Victor Jr. and Benjamin.

Victor Montgomery

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Victor to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

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1. Craziest thing you've ever done? - Has to be ziplining in the Georgia trees. Definitely exhilarating and something I thought I’d never do. I’m actually “considering” doing it again.
 
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? - Hotdogs/rice
 
3. Favorite Way to de-stress after a long week? - Hanging with my family. Watching basketball.
 
4. How you kill time in airports? - Playing apps on phone
 
5. Simple things that make you happiest? - Seeing other people pursue their dreams
 
6. Who You'd Like to Meet? - President Barack Obama
 

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Victor is an outstanding leader for his chapter!  I don't think that Victor is alone in wanting to meet President Obama! I'd love to see him at one of our upcoming national conferences!

Long Story Short: Malcom Mathis II (BDPA St. Louis)

Mr. Malcom B. Mathis II works at Monsanto, a fortune 500 Agricultural Technology company, as an IT Business Architect for North America Supply Chain IT. Malcom has worked at Monsanto since 2011 and has taken on increasing responsibility each year. His work has taken him to numerous places in North America like Illinois, California and Iowa as well as Hawaii, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Malcom is an active contributor to the St. Louis community. He currently serves as President of the executive board of BDPA St. Louis chapter, a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing diversity in Information Technology. He volunteers in the Science and Agriculture Education Outreach program at Monsanto, chairs the Monsanto-BDPA scholarship committee and is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Malcom Mathis (BDPA St. Louis Prez)

Malcom received his B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. He went on to receive a Master’s in Analytical Chemistry from Kent State University in Ohio.

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Malcom to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

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1. Simple things that make you happiest? - I get a flutter in my heart when my children playfully interact with each other.
 
2. Who You'd Like to Meet? - I would like to meet someone from the distant past and someone from the distant future (preferably of my lineage). It would be great to discuss how far we have come and where we are going.
 
3. Favorite Way to de-stress after a long week? - Play a round of golf. There is nothing like getting out and enjoying nature while playing golf; however, if I’m not hitting the ball well, it can add to the stress.
 
4. How you kill time in airports? - I try to time my arrival so I won’t have to wait long to board the plane. However, I will bring a book to read or spark up conversation with a random person. Many times I end up talking on the phone with my wife.

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Malcom is an outstanding leader for his chapter! He is doing all the right things to grow his chapter and I hope that other chapter leaders around the country look up to Malcom for support.

President Profile: Ebenezer Kyei-Baffour (BDPA Southern Minnesota)

Rochester, Minnesota

BDPA Southern Minnesota chapter was chartered in May 1999. The chapter has been financially supported by Mayo Clinic over the past decade.  This chapter has one of the smallest population bases with the BDPA family, however, the chapter has managed to win seven (7) High School Computer Competition (HSCC) national championships.


Ebenezer became the president of BDPA Southern Minnesota in 2016 when the former president, Will Smith, became the Midwest Regional Director. The BDPA Southern Minnesota chapter not only has a track record and a powerful legacy in the HSCC program at the National level, but it’s also respected by the Rochester Minnesota Community as an organization making huge impact in the lives of middle and high school students. My goal is to attract new volunteers, aggressively look for new grants funding, and increase our membership by attracting the college communities and also IT professionals in Southern Minnesota.

Ebenezer Kyei-Baffour, President

BDPA Southern Minnesota Chapter

Address:

PO Box 6981

Rochester, MN 55903

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Favorite quote? “As long as poverty, injustice, and gross inequality persist in our world, none of us can truly rest” – Nelson Mandela.
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Ebenezer Kyei-Baffour

Ebenezer Kyei-Baffour is a supervisor in Research Finance at Mayo Clinic responsible for the management of research grant funds from the federal government, foundations, industry, benefactors, and internal Mayo funding. He has over twenty five years of experience in financial management particularly in the areas of commercial credit analysis, financial analysis, financial reporting, financial forecasting, budgeting and variance analysis, capital expenditure analysis, project management, grants and contracts management, and strategic financial management.

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Favorite motto or favorite scripture? – “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied” – 1 Corinthians 15:19.
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Part of the success formula for BDPA Southern Minnesota is the effort that they place in recruiting middle- and high-school students for their computer camp. The chapter's computer camp creates educational opportunities for a diverse range of students. Computer camp students pack the computer lab each Saturday between December and May. The teamwork and enthusiasm displayed by both students and a dozen corporate volunteers from Mayo Clinic and IBM is truly awe inspiring. Computer camp course topics include HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, My SQL and builds towards a goal of attaining high school credit to reward the students for their effort and education.

Please use the POST COMMENT link below to share some BDPA-Love with the president our BDPA Southern Minnesota chapter!

President Profile: Allen Baylor (BDPA Milwaukee)

BDPA Milwaukee chapter was chartered in May 2005. One of the major corporate sponsors for the chapter has been MillerCoors. The last two presidents in chapter history were both employed by MillerCoors. In August 2013, BDPA Milwaukee chapter was reactivated in an effort to establish a network for minority IT professionals. They are a minority Information Technology (IT) organization dedicated to developing career-minded, IT professionals through networking and education to become leaders and innovators in the IT industry. Through sponsorship and volunteerism, they strive to develop programs in the community for high school and college students, but also for IT professionals and executives.

BDPA recognize chapters across the country that are committed to developing the Information Technology talent pipeline from the 'Classroom to the Boardroom'. BDPA Milwaukee was recognized as the “2014 Comeback Chapter of the Year” for its accelerated growth and commitment to students, members and corporate sponsors. Compared to the other chapters across the nation, BDPA Milwaukee has attracted the highest percent of new members in one year.  BDPA Milwaukee Chapter sponsored local high school students in the National High School Computer Competition (HSCC).



Allen Baylor (2016-2017) took over the presidency upon the passing of Carmen Giles.

Allen Baylor, President
BDPA Milwaukee Chapter

Address: 3939 W. Highland
Milwaukee, WI 53208
(414) 207-1464

Allen Baylor

Allen is a Milwaukee native, with almost 20 years of experience in Information Technology. Allen is married to his beautiful wife, Dr. Aza Baylor, which we have two beautiful children, Amari and Niara. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He has covered areas of IT Operations including IT Security, Networking, Application Monitoring and Tier 3 High Availability Support. He also worked in Project Management as a Web Development PM. From here, he shifted the last decade of his career into the area of Quality Compliance, with a focus on IT Governance, Quality Assurance, QA Testing, Validation, with exposure to FDA Audits for IT Systems. Allen is currently working with MillerCoors as a Governance Specialist with a focus on PMO Governance Processes and Methodology.   MillerCoors has been the official beverage at our annual BDPA Technology Conference over the past few year.

Favorite Quote: “If not now, when? And if not you, why not?" - Michael Roberts

Favorite Motto: Just do it!

Please use the POST COMMENT link below to share some BDPA-Love with the president  of our BDPA Milwaukee chapter!

Chapter President Profile: Victor Montgomery (BDPA Atlanta)

Victor Montgomery

BDPA Atlanta chapter is the 3rd-largest chapter in the nation and they hosted the 2016 BDPA Technology Conference. The chapter is led by Victor Montgomery (State Farm). Victor is an innovative, forward thinking Information Technology (IT) leader, with over eleven years of IT experience. He draws upon his technical acumen as he contributes to the growth and maturity of State Farm's IT into the metro-Atlanta area.

A graduate of Illinois State University, Victor obtained his Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Systems in 2004. He joined State Farm in 2004 starting his career as a mainframe programmer. Victor is currently pursuing his Masters of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is very excited to be a part of the Georgia community helping to move IT forward.

Victor and his wife, Malikah, have one daughter and two sons: Nailah, Victor Jr. and Benjamin.

Take Five: Tyrone McKinney (BDPA New York)

BDPA provides its members with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills in a comforting environment. One person who has taken full advantage of the career-building opportunities in BDPA is Tyrone McKinney. Tyrone is currently serving as president of BDPA New York ... one of the largest chapters in the nation!

We recently asked Tyrone to participate in our Take Five interview series.

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Tyrone McKinney

1. How did you get involved with BDPA? I was asked to do an UNIX overview in 2000.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? Educating our community on new and emerging technologies.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? I would like to see more new media and emerging technology companies support BDPA.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? Your joining a like-minded community of technology enthusiasts and professionals.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF)? Your donation will help to insure that more of our youngsters get involved in technology careers.

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I encourage all of our readers to help Tyrone grow the programs, scholarships and services offered by BDPA New York chapter. One immediate way you can support is through a secure online donation to the chapter's HSCC scholarship program!

Long Story Short: Mike Williams (National BDPA President)

Mike A. Williams * National BDPA President

Mike A. Williams is ending his first year as National BDPA president. He is an experienced senior information technology executive who has over twenty-nine years of technology management and executive experience. Williams has been employed by Fortune 500 companies in the financial services, insurance, outsourcing and transportation and logistics industries.

Williams has used his diverse technology, process, and business skills to transform and optimize operations within internal technology teams and IT Outsourcing client organizations. He has also held P&L responsibilities and lead strategy and product develop initiatives that provided value-added services to clients and increased revenue and earnings within their respective lines of business.

Williams is a passionate supporter and participate in local and national nonprofit organizations. Through his foundation Thinknext, Williams and his team enable people and organizations with great ideas to do amazing things to serve their communities. Williams has a passion for developing young professionals, enabling and advising new community organizations, and assisting aspiring entrepreneurs.

Williams serves as the National President of BDPA, Founder and Chairman of the Thinknext Foundation, and member of Association of Black Foundation Executives, an organization that advocates for responsive and transformative investments in Black communities. Williams is also a published author, speaker, mentor and passionate supporter and advocate of Millennials in the technology industry.

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Mike to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

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Mike and his daughter!

1. Craziest thing you've ever done? Snorkeling when I couldn't even swim
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? Shrimp, Fish and any a variety of fruits (Island may provide those) but throw in some gummies bears
3. Favorite way to exercise? Lifting weights
4. Least favorite chore? Folding clothes
5. Simple things that make you happiest? My daughter's smile and the hugs and kisses she gives me (both physical and virtual ones when we are on the phone)
6. Who You'd Like to Meet? Robert Smith of Vista Equity Partners

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You can follow Mike on Twitter: @itMikeWilliams

Long Story Short: Andrea Hodge (BDPA Greater Tampa Bay)

Andrea Hodge is a VP-Business Architect with JPMorgan Chase.  She is also the president of our BDPA Greater Tampa Bay Chapter. Andrea has over 20 years experience in the banking industry and is currently responsible for IT product innovation for the Chase Auto Finance business. In addition, she drives multiyear business and IT strategies worth ~$24M in annual investment. Andrea also provides business architecture oversight for investment planning which entails defining target state operating models and ensuring well controlled architecture solutions are delivered that adhere to business goals and regulatory standards.

Andrea Hodge * BDPA Gr. Tampa Bay Chapter Prez

Andrea enjoys serving communities where she lives and works, and has held board roles in several non profit organizations including the State of Delaware YMCA (Board of Directors, member); Downtown Wilmington YMCA (Board of Directors, Chair); Concerned Citizens Organization (Chair); and NABA (JP Morgan Chase Chair). Andrea was also responsible for bringing Operation Hope to the state of Delaware, teaching financial literacy principles to 300+ middle and high school students in impoverished communities.

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader.  We asked Andrea to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

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1. Craziest thing you've ever done? I’d have to say the craziest thing I’ve done is participate in the Polar Bear Plunge. I joined hundreds of Special Olympics donors taking a dip in the Atlantic in the middle of the winter. It was a great thrill and experience for an awesome cause. I would definitely do it again, just in a warmer body of water like the Gulf of Mexico!
 
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? I’d take any tropical fruit – but if I had to choose one, it would be the mango. I love this super fruit for its anti-oxidant benefits and taste. I imagine surviving on mangoes would get old after a while, but at least I’d be healthy!
 
3. Favorite Way to de-stress after a long week? After a stressful week, I enjoy unwinding by taking long nature walks. I am an animal lover and particularly enjoy bird watching. Living in the Tampa Bay area gives me lots of opportunities to experience the beautiful landscapes and natural architectural wonders. Getting in touch with nature helps me quiet my mind and focus on inner self.
 
4. Favorite way to exercise? I enjoy exercising on a regular basis by dancing. I’ve been a huge Zumba enthusiast for quite some time and really get a kick out of moving to a mix of urban hip hop and Latin sounds. I am always looking to connect friends to the art of Zumba, so if you haven’t tried it and you’re in the Tampa or Delaware area, lets chat!
 
5. How you kill time in airports? I usually past the time listening to calming music or reading the Harvard Business Review. I try to take advantage of the time to catch up on industry news and innovations in my field. I try not to do actual work while I am in airports not only for security reasons, but also to strike a balance between being physically in the office and not.
 
6. Least favorite chore? I’d have to say any chore is my least favorite. I’ve been both blessed and challenged to marry a man who does all of the cooking. Not having to toil in the kitchen unfortunately means my end of the deal covers cleaning. I guess its not so bad after all, considering the alternative – doing both!
 
7. Simple things that make you happiest? Watching animals in their natural habitat. As I mentioned, I absolutely love animals. I am less impressed with zoos and comparable establishments that cage animals…..and more interested in safaris and water habitats. I believe watching animals helps us get in tune with the present moment, which is a great way to connect with your inner peace.
 
8. Who You'd Like to Meet? I’d like to meet Fidel Castro. Studying international relations as a young person, I’ve always had a fascination with world figures who challenged industrial powers. Mr. Castro has lived through monumental global change, and has pretty much remained committed to his personal and political values. I’d like to understand firsthand, what has contributed most to his tenure as a national leader and what, if anything, he’d do differently given the chance.
 

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Andrea wants to meet one of the more interesting people in our 'Long Story Short' series!

Long Story Short: Loraine Stewart-David (BDPA Detroit Chapter President)

Loraine Stewart-David

Loraine Stewart-David is a contractual CFO/Financial Analyst with one of Michigan’s top fortune financial companies. She is also a contractual Senior Level Healthcare Finance Comptroller, providing both operational and programmatic support to four local health care facilities. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Master’s Degree in Finance and is also a Certified Management Accountant.

She has been proudly affiliated with BDPA Detroit Chapter since 1992, bringing her unique strengths, talents and contributions to the Chapter.  She has served six consecutive terms as BDPA Detroit Chapter VP-Finance. In addition, Loraine served as National BDPA VP-Finance. Providing her organizational and analytical skills, she is elated at the opportunity to currently hold the role of BDPA Detroit Chapter President. She has a proven reputation for results-driven solutions that increase the bottom line. She is proficient in the development and implementation of financial policies, providing credible financial analyses, and decision making to preserve the financial position and performance of BDPA Detroit.

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Loraine 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 de-stress after a long week? Shop for shoes and nail polish!
 
2. How you kill time in airports? I spend my time at the Delta Airlines Sky Club lounge. I can eat, drink, relax, read and sleep while waiting on my flight.
 
3. Simple things that make you happiest? Paying it forward; Seeing other people happy!
 
4. Who You'd Like to Meet? I would like to meet the handsome singer, El Debarge
 

We're not sure if Loraine will have a chance to meet El DeBarge in person ... but, she can listen to 'All This Love'!

Long Story Short: Rick Giraudy (BDPA Greater Columbia)

Rick Giraudy has a powerful legacy within BDPA.   He served for many years as our National BDPA VP-Finance. E arlier this year Rick took on leadership of BDPA Greater Columbia chapter.

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Rick to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

1. Craziest thing you've ever done? Jumped off of a 90-foot cliff in to a lake.

   

   Rick Giraudy * BDPA Gr. Columbia

 
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? Fresh baked Italian bread. Still warm on the inside. YUM!
 
3. Favorite way to exercise? Spin class!! Gets me moving blood circulating and my knees don't hurt.
 
4. Simple things that make you happiest? A hug from my daughter who is starting her 3rd year at Georgia Southern University. Heck these days a phone call without asking for money would be great!
 
5. Who You'd Like to Meet? Wish I would have met Heavy D and Whitney Houston... My favorite people of all time are my grandfather Sid (knew him well), General Colin Powell (got to meet him twice) and President Obama: I got a salute from him.

Can you jump 90-feet into ANYTHING?

Long Story Short: Matthew Lampkin (BDPA Hartford)

Matthew Lampkin joined BDPA Hartford chapter in 2005. Over the years he served in a variety of leadership positions including HSCC coordinator and vice president. He currently serves as the BDPA Hartford chapter president. His immediate goal is to increase the chapter’s membership, build relationships with students at area high schools\colleges, and provide area companies access to a pool of talented IT professionals. One of his biggest accomplishments was the establishment of the Computer Learning Program for the state Department of Children and Families. Although Matthew has spent the past 22 years of his life in the Mid-Atlantic and New England States, he is a native of Houston, Texas. He attended Syracuse University and graduated in 1997 with a BS in Information Management Technology. Currently he is employed by Computer Sciences Corporation in East Hartford, CT as a Security Administrator.

Matthew Lampkin

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Matthew to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

1. Craziest thing you've ever done? Recently signed up for a vacation club membership.
2. Favorite way to exercise? When I'm coaching my 7 - 10 year old players who are on the West Hartford Cowboys!! I do drills with them.
3. Simple things that make you happiest? When those who care about me the most give me a simple thanks for things I do or when these same folks help others; pay it forward.
4. Who You'd Like to Meet? My great grandparents and my great-great-grandparents. Really would love to see what qualities of theirs do I have within me.

I don't much care for the Dallas Cowboys ... but, I can definitely yell out Go Cowboys to Matthew next time I see him!

Long Story Short: Derrick Brown (BDPA Atlanta)

Derrick Brown considers himself to be an Organizational Relationship expert who utilizes critical thinking in order to analyze and assess individual and team dynamics for improvement and strong positive outcomes. This same skill set is utilized as a powerful problem solving tool ... a strong leader, able to influence for success across any organization at all levels. He created the tool for motivational empowerment, 3FE: Find, Focus, Fundamentals and Execute. The everyday person's critical thinking tool for problem solving that enhances, motivates, and empowers the individual.

Derrick is ending his first year as president of our BDPA Atlanta chapter. His chapter earned chapter of the year honors in 2014 after winning the 2013 national BDPA High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championship. There is little that his chapter hasn't accomplished as it continues to expand itself in terms of programs and services for its members, sponsors and other stakeholders.

Derrick Brown

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Derrick to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

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1. Craziest thing you've ever done? - There have been far too many craziest things (some I just can’t mention). However, let’s go with jumping off a house hoping I could fly. As a child I had a very powerful imagination and it continued as a grew up. However, back then there was cartoon called G-Force on television and I wanted to emulate those characters. I tied a sheet around myself and thought that I perhaps could glide off the roof like the characters in the cartoon.
   
   
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? - French Fries. I have a sincere love for potatoes dumped in olive oil and cooked for a several minutes to a golden consistency.
   
   
3. How do you kill time in airports? - Writing on my laptop. I’ve published four books and have eight manuscripts complete. Please be on the lookout for the re-release of 'An Educational Primer For The Majority Student'!
   
   
4. Who you'd like to meet? - I would like to meet Booker T. Washington
   
   

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Somebody bring this brother some french fries when you see him next time!

Long Story Short: Dalric Webb (BDPA Cincinnati)

BDPA Cincinnati chapter president Dalric Webb has a deep background of technical and leadership experience in the corporate and non-profit worlds. He served his country for 24 years in the US Army. His undergraduate work at Hampton University (computer science) and masters degree from Capella University (information technology) are preludes to the Ph.D. that he is working towards in information technology organization and management.

Dalric is a devoted father and he is proving to be a dynamic and successful BDPA chapter president. Dalric took over the chapter presidency in January 2014 ... and the membership has more than doubled in the first half of the year, making his chapter the 2nd-largest in the nation!

Dalric Webb

This blog wanted to get a more personal look into the personality of this rising BDPA leader. We asked Dalric to give brief answers to some odd questions. We hope you enjoy this new feature that we simply call, 'Long Story Short...'

1. Craziest thing you've ever done? - I jumped out of an airplane (five times) as part of U.S. Army Airborne Training at Fort Benning, GA. Given all the training provided to prepare one for the exit from the airplane, each and every time was scary as well as a severe "pucker" moment until landing on the ground and collecting my parachute.
   
   
2. Favorite food you'd take with you on a desert island? - Would be a toss up between sweet potato pie and German chocolate cake. Good thing about both of these choices is that they both contain a lot of high energy producing sugar to keep me pumped and bouncing all over the desert island!
   
   
3. Favorite Way to relax after a long week? - A challenging game of racquetball. Being able to apply speed, power, precision, control, and athletic ability all at once in my favorite fast-paced game is one of the best ways I find to r and unwind.
   
   
4. Simple things that make you happiest? Watching my children grow, learn, develop, and interact. They are little miracles that have blessed my life and they make me smile and teach me to not take life and all the burdens of responsible adulthood too seriously.
   

Dalric and his children at BDPA 'Meet & Greet'

BDPA Cincinnati is used to seeing Dalric bring one or more of his children to chapter events, so we were not surprised about that last answer! Dalric just joined the Twitterverse recently ... take a moment to follow him @DalricWebb!

President Profile: Jason Gibson (BDPA Central Illinois)

BDPA Central Illinois was chartered in August 2003. The founding members were Lorenzo Marshall, Dave Beasley and Theonnie Shields. The chapter is currently the 29th-largest in the nation.

Jason Gibson, chapter president
BDPA Central Illinois
Address: P.O. Box 1806
Bloomington, IL 61702-1806

Phone: (309) 766-8807
Website: http://www.bdpa.org/BL

Jason Gibson took over the chapter presidency in July 2013. Jason and his leadership team are working to grow membership by focusing on increased member participation. Jason is committed to increasing student enrollment and partnering with other STEM-based programs. Jason leads by example ... he is one of the instructors for the K-12 students who are training to compete in the 2014 national High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championship.

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Jason's Favorite Quote: "It's not what you look at that matters,  it's what you see." ~ Henry David Thoreau

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Jason Gibson

Jason has enjoyed technology since building Heath Kits when he was a child. In high school Jason took several programming courses and spent numerous hours coding games on his Commodore 64. While at Aurora University, he worked as the Computer Lab Manager and eventually, Network Administrator and Instructor in the Young Scholars Program.

Jason left Aurora to begin his career at State Farm in 2000, supporting the server and network infrastructure. Jason transitioned into the Systems Analyst role in 2004 and has worked with multiple technologies including J2EE, C++, Visual Basic, Spring, Struts, Dojo and several other user and business interface technologies. Jason has served as a Quality Engineer, reviewing design and code and continues to learn new technologies.

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Jason's Other Favorite Quote: "Whether you think you can,  or you think you can't -- you're right." ~ Henry Ford

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Jason earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a B.S. in Computer Science from Aurora University in 1999. He earned a Masters in Computer Science from the University of Illinois Springfield in 2009. Jason is a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and an Associate in General Insurance (AINS). Jason is currently enrolled in the Master in Information Systems program at University of Illinois Springfield.

Jason’s vision for BDPA Central Illinois chapter is simple and direct, "We have to remember that we must remain highly motivated, dedicated and enthusiastic about our organization. As the Chapter goes through a time of change, our strategy must focus on membership growth, practical community engagement and organizational professionalism".

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Please use the POST COMMENT link below to share some BDPA-Love with the president our BDPA Central Illinois chapter!

Related articles

• High School Computer Competition (Central Illinois, 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?

Related articles

• Rochester Post-Bulletin, 10/1/2013 (BDPA Southern Minnesota)
• Rochester Today, 11/1/2013 (Betty Hutchins, Will Smith)
• KTTC Rochester, 9/9/2013 (Herchran Singh, BDPA Southern Minnesota)
• History of BDPA Awards (1986-2011)
• Long Story Short: LaDonna Crum (BDPA Greater Birmingham)

Take Five: LaDonna Crum (BDPA Greater Birmingham)

BDPA provides its members with unique opportunities to develop leadership skills in a comforting environment. One person who has taken full advantage of the career-building opportunities in BDPA is LaDonna Crum. LaDonna is currently serving as president of BDPA Greater Birmingham chapter ... one of the fastest growing chapters in the nation!

We recently asked LaDonna to participate in our Take Five interview series.

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1. How did you get involved with BDPA? - I originally heard of BDPA in 2003 as a recent graduate of Franklin University (Columbus, Ohio). But I didn’t get the opportunity to join at that time. However, a co-worker invited me to a BDPA program meeting when I moved to Birmingham, AL. I joined BDPA after this meeting. A little later I became the chapter's High School Computer Competition (HSCC) Coordinator. I served in that role from 2004-2006.
2. What is your favorite part of working with BDPA? - My favorite part of working with BDPA is the personal growth. BDPA gives me the opportunity to communicate with other IT professionals. At the same time I have the opportunity to learn from these professionals. Also, BDPA afforded me the opportunity to move into a leadership role and lead our local chapter. I have expanded my networking circle on a local, regional and national level since becoming part of BDPA.
3. What future evolution or change would you like to see in BDPA? - The future evolution I would like to see in BDPA is the overall growth of the organization on a national level. I would like to see BDPA as a primary Information Technology forum for our industry and community throughout the United States. For instance, I would like to see a greater connection between BDPA and government officials at both the federal and municipal levels.
4. Why should someone pay $100 membership dues to join BDPA? - BDPA is an investment in your personal growth. You will have the opportunity to network with other IT professionals; give back to your community; grow in terms of your technical and professional skills and an improved opportunity for career enhancement.
5. Any advice for people considering a donation to the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) - Your donation benefits students in our community by exposing them to the world of information technology. This will contribute to a greater future for them in the workforce and in our community.

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I encourage all of our readers to help LaDonna grow the programs, scholarships and services offered by BDPA Greater Birmingham. One immediate way you can support is through a secure online donation to the chapter's HSCC scholarship program!

Related articles

• BDPA iRadio Show - March 25, 2014
• Message from BDPA Greater Birmingham President

President Profile: Derrick Brown (BDPA Atlanta)

BDPA Atlanta was founded in June 1981. It is a chapter with a powerful legacy in the BDPA family. Two former chapter presidents (Teresa Williams and Felicia Jones) were later elected as officers in the BDPA South Region. The current BDPA Atlanta chapter president -- Derrick Brown -- is taking the chapter to even higher levels under his leadership.

Derrick Brown, President
BDPA Atlanta Chapter

Address:PO Box 726
Duluth, GA 30096

Derrick was initially elected to the BDPA Atlanta chapter board of directors in 2011.  He became president of the chapter in August 2013 and worked with his leadership team to lay out a vision and plan for 2014 programs, scholarships and services.

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Derrick's Favorite Quote: "The path to wisdom is brightly illuminated by the light of perspective."

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Derrick Sherroid Brown is a manager with Macy’s Systems & Technology responsible for the envisioning, planning, budgeting, development, and implementation of highly complex systems applications. His level of responsibility requires dynamic management of diverse, disparate technical and business oriented teams; strong communication and coordination with customers, partners, upper-management, as well as peers, direct reports, and parallel development teams, both onshore and offshore. He is a powerful team player, exemplary leader, superior communicator, and in-depth critical thinker. He focuses these considerable skills on the task of making his team and organization successful.

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Derrick's Motto: "Lifting as we climb."

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Derrick Sherroid Brown is also D.S. Brown. He is an author, a true lover of the written word. For him, writing is a passion. Like so many others in the wide world he is striving to give the stories in his mind a voice. He is seeking to continuously evolve his writing skill. To this end, he wakes up well before dawn, first to exercise his body, then to exercise his mind. He sets himself before his keyboard, and reaches for mental dexterity, complexity, and passion. He crafts involved, convoluted, but very entertaining drama, action, or romance, whatever comes to mind. This is his fiction. Then, he may switch, and concentrate on facts, common issues that are relevant to the common person. He will write zealously about that which he feels is of vital importance to everyone, not just the privileged few. All he would ask of you, his partner in this writing adventure is this … take a moment to discover his work. It is his sincerest desire that you find favor with what he writes. Enjoy his words. If you don't, then take a moment to tell him why.

Derrick shared some of his insights about BDPA on recent episodes of both the BDPA iRadio Show and Technology Expresso Cafe.  Derrick truly enjoyed his experiences at the 2013 BDPA Technology Conference held in Washington DC.  I hope that his words inspire others to make plans to attend the next BDPA conference!

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Please use the POST COMMENT link below to share some BDPA-Love with the president our BDPA Atlanta chapter!

Related articles

• Message from BDPA Atlanta Chapter President
• Tech Expresso Cafe: Derrick Brown (BDPA Atlanta)

President Profile: Dalric Webb (BDPA Cincinnati)

BDPA Cincinnati was founded in December 1989. It is a chapter with a powerful legacy in the BDPA family. Two former chapter presidents (Wayne Hicks and Gina Billings) were later elected to the national BDPA presidency. The current BDPA Cincinnati chapter president -- Dalric Webb -- is poised to take the chapter to even higher levels under his leadership.

Dalric Webb, President
BDPA Cincinnati Chapter

Address: PO Box 429215
Cincinnati, OH 45242
(513) 549-6991

Dalric was introduced to BDPA Cincinnati chapter by past president Wanda (Gray) Hayes. He immediately accepted a leadership position on the chapter's board of directors.

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Dalric's Favorite Quote: "Let's get motivated people!"

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Dalric had a full career serving our nation in the US Army as both an enlisted soldier and an officer. He retired from the military in 2006 and began to focus on his second career with General Electric, currently operating as a compliance officer with the company.

Dalric received his bachelors in computer science from Hampton University. Over time he has earned Masters degrees in both Information Technology and Information Management. Currently, he is working towards his PhD in Organization Management from Capella University. Dalric is a father and a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.

"I do believe in the value of the organization as a whole and that it has the potential to make a vital difference in the communities in which we work and live by synthesizing the power of networking within the community to execute with excellence the BDPA mission of advancing the careers of African American information technology professionals from the classroom to the boardroom."

Dalric shared some of his insights about BDPA on a recent episode of the BDPA iRadio Show. He believes strongly that BDPA growth is more likely if all of the volunteer leadership positions within the chapter are filled. He works hard to identify potential volunteers and get them connected with specific areas of the chapter where they can help. Dalric shared his top 10 tips for filling volunteer vacancies with this blog last year.

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Please use the POST COMMENT link below to share some BDPA-Love with the president our BDPA Cincinnati chapter!

Related articles

• Message from the BDPA Cincinnati Chapter President
• Top 10 BDPA Chapters (Membership, March 2014)