Believe in Ohio: Mentoring Matters ... Shavon's Story

We need mentors. Dr. Julian Earls shares his thoughts on the mentor process. Our hope is that you will find a way to become a mentor for a young person in the state of Ohio.



We are trying to reach 100 mentors in Cincinnati, Cleveland and Columbus. We truly need your help to find 100 mentors over these 100 days. Reply to this message over visit our mentor sign-up sheet if you want to be part of the solution for delivering on this STEM-based business plan competition in urban areas of Ohio.

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I first met my mentor when I was in his math class at Tri-C. He has made a big impact on me both academically and personally. He gave me opportunities not only in the STEM field, but helped me work towards by career goal. He also gave me the chance to meet professionals in STEM field so I can learn from them. He guides me through school to make sure I stay on top of my schoolwork.

He is very honest, whether you like it or not. He got to know me and truly understand me. Whenever I don’t know something he is the first person I contact. If only words can express how truly thankful I am to have worked with him.

Shavon Castro, Student
Cuyhoga Community College
Cleveland, OH

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Shavon’s story is why we need mentors. The Urban STEM Mentoring Network is designed to assist high school students for only 1 hour per month. Click on http://www.believeinohio.org/mentor-signup/ to assist the Shavon’s in our community.

Interview With BDPA Vice President Michael Wulf

BDPA Midwest Region vice president Michael Wulf shares the plans to re-establish the organization in Kansas City.

High School Computer Competition Team (Atlanta, 2015)

BDPA Atlanta uses its Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program to teach high school students how to create Web Applications using the following programming languages; HTML, CSS, SQL, MySQL, and PHP.



BDPA SITES students learn how to code. They also receive coaching regarding their personal and professional development. BDPA Atlanta volunteer works with students on team building, public speaking, time management, presentation skills and goal setting. The chapter seeks to equip, encourage and enlighten its students for current and future opportunities in the IT industry.

Maurice Weston, Majazz Allah, Madeline Veira, Evan Marable, Lloyd Alexander, Jamal Musa

Jonecia Trice, Akilah Weston, Suntheng Taing, Nicolas Badila, Austin Marable

Not in the Picture: Yash Shirsath, Zaria Brown, Jordan Thompson

BDPA Atlanta chapter has a strong legacy in the national championship having won the entire thing in 2012. The chapter now plans to take a new group of youngsters to Washington DC to compete the 30th annual National BDPA HSCC championship.

You can help BDPA Atlanta chapter with a secure online donation! The next step is yours. What say u?

CRS Group Renews Corporate Support of BDPA Chicago Chapter

BDPA Chicago chapter provides a powerful return-on-investment to the CRS Group. As a result, the company agreed to renew its corporate support of BDPA Chicago by purchasing two memberships and a table at the chapter's annual Awards Banquet. The memberships will be used by CRS Group president Michael Gaines and senior account manager Nashunda Bolden. Nashunda also serves as the executive vice president for BDPA Chicago chapter.

Nashunda Bolden

Founded in 1994 as Computer Resource Solutions, CRS Group is a privately held company with offices in Itasca, IL and downtown Chicago.  CRS Group provides staffing solutions to Fortune 500 companies by successfully managing their IT contingent workforce needs. The company expanded its offerings to extend that same high-quality service to other business needs, including creative, marketing, finance, legal and human resources.

BDPA Chicago is the 2nd-largest chapter in the nation and one of the reasons for its success is corporate relationships developed with numerous companies in the area. BDPA delivers on its commitment to help its sponsors recruit diverse technology talent, retain current diverse technology workers, engage in active community outreach, maximize its supplier diversity achievements and increase market share within the organization and community.

Michael Gaines shared his thoughts about BDPA in a YouTube video a few years ago:



Our hope is that other corporations around the country will seek out ways to engage with BDPA on a local or national level. Learn more about the benefits of corporate sponsorship by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135, x108).

Invasion of the Data Snatchers: The Net Draws Tighter

Thaddeus Howze

Guest Blogger: Thaddeus Howze
Crossposted from 'The Good Men Project'



If you started with the video, you might have had the impression you’d heard (or read) this somewhere before. You have. It was part of a famous 1930 radio broadcast that began like this:

"No one would have believed in the last years of the nineteenth century that this world was being watched keenly and closely by intelligences greater than man’s and yet as mortal as his own; that as men busied themselves about their various concerns they were scrutinized and studied, perhaps almost as narrowly as a man with a microscope might scrutinize the transient creatures that swarm and multiply in a drop of water. With infinite complacency men went to and fro over this globe about their little affairs, serene in their assurance of their empire over matter. It is possible that the infusoria under the microscope do the same. No one gave a thought to the older worlds of space as sources of human danger, or thought of them only to dismiss the idea of life upon them as impossible or improbable. It is curious to recall some of the mental habits of those departed days. At most terrestrial men fancied there might be other men upon Mars, perhaps inferior to themselves and ready to welcome a missionary enterprise. Yet across the gulf of space, minds that are to our minds as ours are to those of the beasts that perish, intellects vast and cool and unsympathetic, regarded this earth with envious eyes, and slowly and surely drew their plans against us. And early in the twentieth century came the great disillusionment."

This is the introduction to H.G. Well’s War of the Worlds. In his book, he theorized about a vast and cool intelligence that watched Mankind’s every move before making the decision to come to Earth to conquer and destroy Humanity. Sounds grim. This radio broadcast actually put fear in the hearts of people everywhere. It is one of the 20th century’s greatest hoaxes. How prophetic a hoax Wells would never know.

Why begin a video about the loss of privacy to future technology using language very similar to that broadcast? Mostly because today’s skeptical mindset dismisses the loss of privacy as little more than a hoax, something to be talked about on the news and then forgotten.

But before you decide to forget, let me enlighten you on a few things:

Click here to read the rest of this Good Men Project article.

BDPA Information Technology Minority Executive Forum

BDPA Atlanta chapter and the Next Level Technology Foundation recently held its annual event featuring Minority IT Executives. The forum this year featured National BDPA founder Earl Pace as its keynote speaker with Next Level Technology Foundation executive director Felicia Jones serving as the moderator of the panel discussion.



Please take a moment to support BDPA Atlanta chapter programs, scholarships and services!

Message from BDPA Midwest Region Officers

BDPA Midwest Region officers Michael Wulf (vice president) and Eric Dortch (director) provide a welcoming message for the guests at the 18th Annual BDPA Cincinnati Education Banquet held on October 4, 2014.



Even if you can't be with at the banquet in person ... you can still help by making a secure online donation in support of the chapter's Brandon Berry Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Schedule an Hour of Code, December 8-14, 2014

Join the largest learning event in history, December 8-14. The Hour of Code is a global movement reaching tens of millions of students in 170+ countries. Anyone, anywhere can organize an Hour of Code event.



One-hour tutorials are available in more than 30 languages. No experience needed. Ages 4 to 104. Great marketing opportunity for BDPA on a local or national level!

Future Face of Technology: Polite Stewart, Jr. (Southern University)

Polite Stewart Jr. was 3 years old when his parents pulled him out of day care and his father began teaching him at home. The Baton Rouge, La., native loved learning science — and he clearly had an aptitude for it. At 14, he enrolled as a full time student at Southern University, majoring in physics. Polite graduated in December 2012 at 18, and is believed to be the youngest to do so in the university’s history.



He plans to pursue a career in biotechnology that will allow him to apply the science he loves to the real world. He is currently programming for BL7.3.3(SAXS/WAXS),providing user support, completing mechanical work and devising research proposals as a Post-baccalaureate Fellow at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

BDPA Mobile Application Showcase: Richard Watts III (Central Illinois)

BDPA Central Illinois member Richard Watts III (University High School) earned first place (and a $6,500 college scholarship from State Farm!) for his efforts during the 1st Annual BDPA Mobile Application Showcase.



BDPA used this initiative to expose its student members to mobile application development and showcase the students' expertise during the annual national technology conference. The students were provided with foundation training for mobile application development and mentoring throughout the pilot. The 2014 BDPA Mobile Application Showcase featured high school and college students that designed, developed and deployed a mobile application (business, personal productivity or game) to a mobile device for display at the national conference.

L-R: Craig Brown, Markita Payne, Michael Tyson, Richard Watts III, Tonji Zimmerman, Jason Gibson

The BDPA Mobile Application Showcase was sponsored by State Farm.

BlueCross BlueShield Shows New Robotics Technology at BDPA Career Fair

Did you see the Double telepresence robot showcased at the 2014 BDPA Career Fair by the folks from BlueCross BlueShield of IL, MT, NM, OK, TX? The Indianapolis Recorder was enamored enough to place a video vignette on their YouTube channel.

Tech Entrepreneur Eric Hamilton on 'Challenges Facing Blacks in Technology'

Eric Hamilton is a technology entrepreneur and a member of our BDPA New York chapter.  Eric helped unleash Around The Way which is a mobile app company.   Around The Way's mobile app finds the closest Black-owned business to your location. He founded the Web Academy, a FREE online school that teaches web design. He wrote the book, 'Social Media Branding in the Age of Obama'.

Currently, Eric is crowdfunding for his newest innovation, 'TinyStic', a portable HDMI device that uses wireless Miracast technology to turn your phone into a PC.

Anyhow, Eric was interviewed by Declassified Agenda and he shared his thoughts on the challenges that face Blacks in Technology and how he sees African Americans succeeding in the information technology industry.



Eric laid out some fairly provocative opinions on the challenges that face Blacks in technology. Do you agree or disagree with his thoughts on the matter?

High School Computer Competition (Dallas, 2014)

BDPA Dallas chapter (founded in 1987) has been on the journey towards winning a national BDPA High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championship for over 20 years. The chapter leaders shared some of their thoughts on impact that the Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program has had on them and the students who receive this STEM-based training in this video:



The SITES program in Dallas is a collaborative learning experience that gives students an opportunity to develop higher order thinking skills and problem solving in a real world context. They will learn how to create dynamic web sites using HTML, CSS, PHP and JAVA. Participants develop interpersonal, teamwork skills and they learn how to create and develop presentations. These students will also learn public speaking skills, time management skills, how to set and achieve goals and working in a team environment.

The 2014 HSCC team being trained by Dallas chapter seeks to win the championship this year!

L-R: Tatiana Madrigal, Maxwell Nwafor, Christion Lankford, Brandon Pham, Chad White (instructor)

The major corporate sponsor for the chapter is JPMorgan Chase.   However, we need our blog readers to do their part ... you can help BDPA Dallas motivate their students by helping them raise funds to give out college scholarships. Please take a moment to make a secure online donation to the BDPA Dallas HSCC Scholarship Fund.

Related articles

• Grant Disbursement: BDPA Dallas ($10,000)
• Overview: BDPA High School Computer Competition

High School Computer Competition (Greater Columbia, 2014)

BDPA Greater Columbia (chartered May 1997) reminds me of the little engine that could. The chapter has trained hundreds of K-12 students in its Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program over the years. The chapter has great community and corporate support through sponsors such as IT-oLogy. Many wonderful students, such as Anthony Coleman, Raven Stevenson and Brandi Taylor, from this chapter have received college scholarships as a result of their BDPA activity.



The next logical step is for BDPA Greater Columbia chapter to win the national BDPA HSCC championship. Could it happen this year?

BDPA Columbia chapter trained 15 students this year. Chapter volunteers worked with these students to develop and increase Information Technology skills and knowledge with seminars and workshops in web development (asp.net), programming (vb.net) databases (mysql), java script, system development life-cycle, web site story boarding and agile project management methodology. Also, these students participated in workshops focused on video creation and editing, creating web page profile, and oral presentations.

L-R: Perry Cates, Kevin Rabinovich, Joel Schirmer, Cody Shearer, James Smith,
Jalil Peterman, Makayla Ishaml, Constance Elkins and Braxton Robinson

The chapter would love to hoist a championship trophy. Whether they do or not ... our blog readers can help ensure that these young people receive college scholarships by simply making a secure online donation! We might find the next Raven Stevenson with your help!



What say u?

Related articles

• 36th Annual BDPA Technology Conference (Indianapolis, August 5-9, 2014)
• Overview: BDPA High School Computer Competition

36th Annual BDPA Technology Conference (Indianapolis, August 5-9, 2014)

Learn more about the 36th annual BDPA Technology Conference being held August 5-9, 2014 in Indianapolis.  Here is a brief video clip with some of the details of this remarkable STEM-based event.



Call BDPA on (301) 584-3135 to learn more about connecting with the organization's programs, scholarships and services on a local, regional or national level.

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'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.

Related articles

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• Digital Journal, 5/23/2013 (Goldie Bonney)

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.

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• Overview: BDPA High School Computer Competition

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, 2014.  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 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)

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• Monsanto Scholarship for BDPA Students (Deadline: 7/15/2014)

Eli Lilly and Company Seeks to Jump-Start IT Career for 50 College Students

Eli Lilly and Company has been a major BDPA corporate sponsor for over a decade. The company upgraded its annual sponsorship to the Platinum level in 2014, primarily because the 36th annual BDPA Technology Conference is coming to Indianapolis, IN on August 5-9, 2014.

To celebrate this major investment, Eli Lilly wants to reach out to at least 50 college students who live or go to school in the state of Indiana. The company has purchased 50 BDPA memberships which are being given to deserving college students who supply them with six simple data points:

1. Name
2. College
3. Email Address
4. Mailing Address
5. Phone Number
6. Resume *or* URL for your LinkedIn Network profile

Not only will the first 50 college students that respond to his offer receive a complimentary annual membership into BDPA ... these students will also receive an exclusive dinner invitation to attend an IT College Student Dinner, sponsored by Eli Lilly, that takes place on Thursday, August 7, 2014 during the annual technology conference. This dinner will provide the invited college students with a unique networking opportunity with IT executives and managers from Lilly's world headquarters offices. Finally, the students will be inspired as part of the private audience of keynoter Pierre Campbell.



The process is simple enough. Send the six data points shown above by email to either Angel Henry (Eli Lilly) or Wayne Hicks (National BDPA).

Do it now! Don't procrastinate! This is a rare opportunity for a college student to get connected with some of the movers and shakers in the IT industry. Find a way to 'make it so' for your life and career!

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• BDPA and Eli Lilly Offer $2,500 Scholarship to Minority Students
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BDPA Founder Earl Pace Asks, 'Is BDPA a Promise Unfulfilled?'

National BDPA founder Earl Pace was the guest speaker for BDPA Philadelphia chapter last month. His presentation revolved around the provocative question, 'Is BDPA a promised unfulfilled?'

 

Mr. Pace shared his personal story on how career limitations for African Americans in the 1970s led to the formation of BDPA. Mr. Pace provided advice on how to continue to build on the 40-year legacy of BDPA in America.

This is a 'must-see' video for all past, current and future BDPA members!



Comments?

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