BDPA Cincinnati High School Computer Competition Team (2013)

These are the coaches and students that make up the 2013 BDPA Cincinnati High School Computer Competition (HSCC) team. They plan to compete in the National BDPA HSCC championship later this year in Washington DC.

L-R: Deborah Prince (Outreach Director), Hadiya Harrigan, Jada Brown, Hasani Harrigan, Brian Pulliam, Kiese Wambu, and Frank Hill (Instructor)

Happy Birthday Denise Holland (Past National BDPA President)

Happy Birthday to our past national BDPA president, Denise Holland!

Federal Reserve Bank Joins Growing List of BDPA Career Fair Companies

The buzz for the 2013 BDPA Career Fair being held August 16-17 in Washington DC is growing day-by-day. Today we learn that the Federal Reserve Information Technology folks purchased a booth at our career fair.

The Federal Reserve joins a growing list of BDPA Career Fair companies that include:

1. Johnson & Johnson
2. Health Care Service Corporation
3. Accenture
4. Deloitte
5. Eli Lilly and Company
6. GEICO
7. Mayo Clinic
8. MillerCoors
9. National Security Agency
10. NextEra Energy Resources
11. PNC Bank
12. Prudential
13. University of Phoenix
14. Walgreen Company
15. Walmart

This is a great time to be a BDPA member or supporter as we are truly gaining traction with companies who are HIRING. Have you placed your current resume on the BDPA Job Board yet? If not, visit today and see what we've got for you -- http://www.ITDiversityCareers.com

Seeking Students for BDPA IT Showcase

BDPA Charlotte chapter is actively recruiting high school and college students to participate in the 2013 BDPA IT Showcase. Chapter member Kevin Robinson created this promotional video to help get the word out.



The message applies nationwide. BDPA understands that there are too few African Americans stretching themselves to obtain PhD in computer science or other STEM-related curriculum. That is the deeper purpose for the BDPA IT Showcase. We want to show our students role models as well as encourage them to showcase their research and presentation skills. Please let us know if you know of a high school or college student interested in participating in the 2013 BDPA IT Showcase!

Hartford Steam Boiler

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation is always looking for new funding sources willing to consider grant proposals in support of BDPA programs, scholarships and services. We are pleased to see that Hartford Steam Boiler (HSB) is open to funding requests. HSB places a high value on improving the quality of life in Hartford, its home for more than 140 years, and the cities where they have branch offices. HSB believes businesses that are dedicated to the community reap more benefits than simply their own prosperity and growth. They help to improve the ultimate bottom-line – life – by creating a place where everyone wants to live, work, and grow.

The HSB corporate-giving program focuses primarily on the Greater Hartford community. The company supports organizations in several categories – education, civic, health and human services, the arts, and culture.

For more information about the HSB Corporate Giving program, please submit a proposal in writing to:

Ann Waller
Hartford Steam Boiler
One State Street
PO Box 5024
Hartford, CT 06102-5024

MTC Integration Joins Growing Number of IT Entrepreneurs Who Invest in BDPA

Masai Troutman

BDPA is pleased to announce that MTC Integration is on board as our newest corporate supporter. The company founder, Masai Troutman, agreed to purchase 5 corporate memberships - one will be used for him; the other 4 will be used to underwrite college student memberships in the state of Maryland.

This sponsorship is part of our effort to engage with BDPA entrepreneurs and small business owners.

BDPA iRadio Show: April 9, 2013 (Matthew Harvey, Pamela Sexton)

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is very proud to be the creator of the BDPA iRadio Show. You can listen to the archive version of the show using the widget shown in the right-hand sidebar of this blog. FREE download from the iTunes Store is also available for our listeners!

Listen to internet radio with BDPA on Blog Talk Radio

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The guests on the April 9th show:

Matthew Harvey - Chapter President, BDPA Indianapolis - Matthew Harvey is president of one of the most active BDPA chapters in the nation. His chapter has a legacy for educational programs that impact on the lives of K-12 students. Also, his chapter has created a very unique and vibrant bond with a Fortune 100 corporation, Eli Lilly & Company.

Matthew shared his vision for the chapter including how he sees the 2014 BDPA Technology Conference ... to be held in Indianapolis ... over the coming weeks and months.  The twitter handle for his chapter is @BDPA_Indy.

Pamela Sexton - Director, National BDPA Technology Conference - Pamela Sexton is the 2013 National BDPA Technology conference director. She is pulling together the largest gathering of African American IT professionals in the nation on August 14-17, 2013 in Washington DC. There will be thousands of participants, hundreds of corporations, dozens of workshops, seminars, plenary sessions, a wonderful golf tournament, a 2-day career fair and so much more.

Pamela shared the current updates on the conference with our BDPA iRadio Show listeners. The conference twitter handle is @bdpa_conference

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We hope you enjoy the insights and commentary on the show from each of these guests. Please take a moment to post a comment to let us know that you care!

Message from the BDPA Milwaukee Chapter President

Carmen Giles

Carmen Giles (MillerCoors) agreed to work with others to rejuvenate the BDPA Milwaukee chapter. She shared an update on the process with us recently.

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We had an informational meeting last month with 14 people. Everyone was very interested in the organization. Adonica Randall (Abaxent) shared a wealth of knowledge and lesson learned regarding the past Milwaukee Chapter.

Meeting Agenda:

• NBDPA Overview
• NBDPA Technology Conference Experience
• Corporate Sponsorship overview
• Milwaukee Chapter:
1. History of the past Milwaukee Chapter and Lesson Learned from the past chapter
2. Officer positions tentatively assigned:
• President – Carmen Giles (MillerCoors)
• Vice President – Allen Baylor (MillerCoors)
• Vice President of Finance – Open (Confirm at next meeting)
• Vice President of Membership Management – Sandi Scott (Scott Institute of Learning)
• Vice President Member Services – Nicole Jackson (MillerCoors)
• Vice President Strategy and Planning – Albert Thomas (GE Healthcare)
• Local Chapter Administrator - Open (Confirm at next meeting)
• Goal is to have all open officer positions filled by end of April
3. BDPA Milwaukee open enrollment - Goal is  to have at least 6 individuals join by the end of April
• Next Steps:
1. Next meeting scheduled for April 18
2. Meeting every two weeks
3. Chapter Planning
4. Membership Drive
5. Networking Event at the Milwaukee MillerCoors Pub (Confirm a date at the next meeting)
• Q&A

I will provide another update after the April 18th meeting. Please let me know if you have any further questions or would like to discuss in further detail.

Sincerely,
Carmen Giles, president
BDPA Milwaukee Chapter

National BDPA Technology Conferences (2013-2015)

I encourage all BETF-Blog readers to make plans to attend the 2013 National BDPA Technology Conference to be held in Washington DC on August 14-17, 2013.  Our National BDPA Board of Directors is thinking ahead. They have selected the location for the next three conferences ... Washington DC (2013), Indianapolis (2014) and Washington DC (2015)

Creating IT Futures Foundation Donates $10,000 to Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarship Fund

Creating IT Futures Foundation agreed to donate $10,000 to BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) to support education for 20 high school students interested in pursuing STEM-related studies at the collegiate level. The funds will be placed in the Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarship Fund and be awarded to 20 high-performing students in the National BDPA High School Computer Competition (HSCC) championship being held in Washington DC on August 14-17, 2013.

Creating IT Futures Foundation supported college scholarships for deserving BDPA student members in 2011 and 2012. The scholarships have been awarded to some truly remarkable young people who will help America 'win the future' in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

BETF Scholarship Winners

Creating IT Futures Foundation,established in 1998 as the philanthropic arm of CompTIA, the IT Industry Association, is aware that studies show that workplaces benefit from diversity. Due to a number of factors, the percentage of women and minorities in Information Technology (IT) has been lower than reflected in the population at large. That’s why Creating IT Futures Foundation specifically partners with programs that can identify and recruit women and minority candidates to the IT profession.

"BETF is grateful to Creating IT Futures Foundation executive director Charles Eaton and others who continue to fuel BDPA programs, scholarships and services. We hope that others will seek to do their part in support of the Jesse Bemley Scholarship Fund by making secure online donation immediately!" said BETF executive director Wayne Hicks.

BDPA Joins with President Obama’s Council on Service and Civic Participation to Deliver President’s Volunteer Service Award

BDPA announced today that they have teamed up with the White House to become a Certifying Organization for the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD, a national program recognizing Americans who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteer service. Established in 2003, the AWARD was created by President George W. Bush to give Presidential recognition to individuals, families, and groups who meet requirements for volunteer service, measured by the number of service hours performed over twelve months. [SOURCE]

BDPA is one of many organizations that have joined forces to deliver the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD and honor the volunteers who strengthen our nation. As a Certifying Organization for the AWARD, BDPA is responsible for verifying service hours, nominating potential recipients, and delivering the AWARD.

Monique Berry

“We are extremely proud to recognize our most outstanding volunteers with the PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD,” said Monique Berry, BDPA President. “BDPA volunteers are role models in our community, donating their time, energy and talent to advance computer technology across the nation. The AWARD is our way of thanking these volunteers and inspiring everyone in our community to make volunteering a central part of their lives,” she added.

The AWARD is issued by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, the group that helps to foster and encourage a culture of volunteer service and civic participation among Americans. The program is chaired by two-time Super Bowl Champion Darrell Green, with former U.S. Senators Bob Dole and John Glenn as honorary co-chairs. The Council is composed of leaders in government, media, entertainment, business, education, nonprofit, volunteer service organizations, and community volunteering.

BDPA was founded in 1975 by Earl Pace and the late David Wimberly as an answer to minimal African American representation in the technology field. Today, BDPA is a nationally recognized technology-focused organization with 46 active chapters in the United States. They boast a diverse and varied membership, including programmers, analysts, engineers, managers, instructors, students, and entrepreneurs.

The PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD is within reach, even for those who have never volunteered before.

Monique Berry, BDPA President states, “There are so many ways to contribute, and every volunteer hour makes a difference in improving the quality of life for others. BDPA encourages everyone to get involved and to bring along your family, friends and neighbors. Together, we can strengthen America – one hour at a time.”

For more information about volunteering with BDPA, contact Zenia Lofton at vpms@bdpa.org or call BDPA on (301) 584-3135.

Pfizer Plans to Use BDPA Job Board to Improve Diversity Recruitment

BDPA is pleased to announce that Pfizer is a new corporate sponsor. Pfizer is a pharmaceuticals company committed to applying science and global resources to improve health and well-being at every stage of life. The company strives to provide access to safe, effective and affordable medicines and related health care services to the people who need them.

This is a brand new corporate relationship for BDPA. The company is focused on a ROI-value proposition that includes both recruitment of diverse IT talent as well as retention of current diverse IT talent.

BDPA plans to deliver on the recruitment promise via our BDPA Job Board - www.ITDiversityCareers.com - which continue to grow on a daily basis with new job seekers, recruiters, and IT-related job postings.

Pfizer will underwrite the annual memberships for 10 of its employees into BDPA. This will allow those 10 people the opportunity to network and take full advantage of all the benefits of membership in the largest organization of African American technology professionals in the nation.

Pfizer is leading by example.   We hope that other Fortune 500 companies will take a look at the benefits of becoming a BDPA corporate sponsor.   For more information you can reach out to us by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135)

Comcast Foundation

The Comcast Foundation was founded by Comcast Corporation in June 1999 to provide charitable support to qualified nonprofit organizations. The Foundation primarily invests in programs and nonprofit organizations that strengthen their communities. Their primary focus is on funding diversity-oriented programs that address digital literacy, community service and building tomorrow’s leaders.

It appears that BDPA programs fall in the 'Digital literacy and related programs' focus area. As America evolves into a truly digital nation, the Comcast Foundation wants to help ensure that all citizens of all backgrounds can use broadband to achieve their full potential. Helping more people to learn the benefits of broadband (“digital literacy”), and then to use it (“broadband adoption”), will make our communities and our nation stronger.

Comcast Foundation does not accept unsolicited sponsorship requests or grant proposals. If your chapter is interested in submitting a grant proposal on behalf of your SITES proposal, then verify that you operate within a Comcast service area and use the local address for all related correspondence.

Click here to see if your chapter or organization is co-located with a local Comcast Foundation service area.

Contact BETF by reply email if you have interest in pursuing a joint grant proposal.

National Security Agency Seeks Diverse IT Talent from BDPA Career Fair

BDPA is pleased to announce that the National Security Agency will have a booth at the 2-day career fair that is a component of our 2013 BDPA Technology Conference in Washington DC. These are great job opportunities and I hope that our BDPA members are ready with their resumes and best interview skills during the conference this year!

Do you think that your employer is interested in recruiting diverse Information Technology talent this year?  If so, please reach out to us by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (301.584-3135).

PNC Bank Seeks to 'Make A Difference' as a BDPA Bronze Level Corporate Sponsor

We are very proud to announce that PNC Bank agreed to become a Bronze Level corporate sponsor. The bank wants to hire on-board at least 3 people over the course of the next year via the BDPA Job Board and the 2-day career fair being held on August 16-17 in Washington DC.

They also want to raise the brand awareness of their company by advertising in the BDPA Conference Guide as well as sponsoring one of the workshop tracks at the 2013 BDPA Technology Conference.

Also, PNC Bank wants to help BDPA provide meaningful STEM experiences to young people in Cleveland and Philadelphia ... as such they agreed to purchase five (5) corporate sponsorships in both of those local chapters.

Finally, PNC Bank wants to work with the BDPA Northeast regional vice president, Fred Smith, and the University of Pittsburgh in an aggressive effort to rejuvenate our BDPA Pittsburgh chapter. To do so, they agreed to purchase 10 corporate memberships ... half of which will go to college students at the University of Pittsburgh.

PNC Bank is looking to work with BDPA at local, regional and national level in 2013 ... and we are grateful to them for doing so!

Dell Member Purchase Program: BDPA (April 2013)

It’s our pleasure to share Dell’s Member Promotion Program (MPP) communication for the month of April with BDPA members!

Dell Member Purchase Program: BDPA (Apr 2013) from Wayne Hicks

A few call-outs from Dell’s April flyer:

1. Double Your Discount is back from 4/4 – 4/30 
2. BlackBerry Z10 for Verizon Wireless - $50 discount by using coupon code: Z10SAVE50 plus a $50 Promo eGift Card , offer valid from 4/1-4/30 
3. Double Your Discount is back on Dell Electronic and Accessories – save 10% by using coupon code J7LDVZT3RL$89R, offer valid from 4/4 – 4/30

A'right BDPA folks ... here is how to shop:

1. Continue to Earn Rewards with Dell Advantage: Members can also earn 5% cash back with a Dell promo eGift Card and free 2nd day shipping on any purchase. Register now at: www.Dell.com/mpp/bdpaadvantage
2. Shop online at www.Dell.com/mpp/bdpa
3. Give Dell a call at (888) 243-9964 and reference Member ID: CS127235942 – please note that your member ID has changed.

Webster University Is a New BDPA Corporate Supporter

BDPA is very pleased to add Webster University to its growing list of corporate supporters. Webster University chief information officer Ken Freeman agreed to attend the 35th annual BDPA Technology Conference. Ken is a longtime BDPA supporter as well as a member of the Information Technology Senior Manager Forum. Ken supports his local chapter -- BDPA St. Louis -- as a member of its corporate advisory council.

Please welcome Webster University to the BDPA Family!

Walmart Makes Bronze Level Sponsorship Commitment to BDPA

Built on the principles of leadership through service, Walmart recently joined the growing list of Bronze Level Corporate Sponsors at this year’s 35th Annual National BDPA Technology Conference and Career Fair on August 14-17, 2013 in Washington DC.

"We're proud to be part of the annual BDPA Conference," said Fumbi Chima, Walmart Vice President of International Integrations. "We know that supporting STEM programs and careers in science, technology, engineering and math help prepare young professionals for exciting opportunities and challenging careers."

Committed to quality products, innovative thinking, creative leadership, and sustainability, Walmart’s global reputation of community goodwill continues to be built on trust, confidence, and reliability. Every day, Walmart helps over 200 million customers improve their quality of life by saving them money at 10,700 stores in 27 different countries. In FY’13, Walmart reached $466 billion in record sales.

"We are excited to have Walmart as a partner this year. Not only will their contribution support the conference programs, it will help BDPA maintain our education and outreach programs to advance STEM careers," said Monique Berry, National BDPA president.

As a global member-focused technology organization with 46 active chapters in the United States, BDPA continues to stand as a leader in delivering 21st century technological programs, college scholarships, mentoring and services for youth and adult Information Technology professionals. BDPA is honored to partner with a world class organization such as Walmart.

For more information on the BDPA Corporate Sponsorship program, contact BDPA Corporate Sales Department director Wayne Hicks by email (corpsales@bdpa.org) or phone (513.284-4968).

Message from Cincinnati Chapter President

Clarence Larcarte

It’s an exciting time to be a part of BDPA Cincinnati! Why? Because technology enables us to improve our lives in so many different facets and BDPA is all about technology. Whether you are a casual technology user or a hard-core developer, we have something for you.

So, what are some of the things you can expect to see from us in the coming months? Well, how about a workshop on 'Ethical Hacking'? Or a meeting where we just play video games ... so we can learn about 'Code Development'? I bet you’d find it interesting if we talk about the latest people to get rich from IT (and how you could do it too). These are just a few of the topics we’ll explore. All while keeping our focus on LEARN MORE, EARN MORE, DO MORE!

Our chapter is hosting a meetup of the 'Cincinnati Blacks In Technology' on Wednesday, April 17, 2013. Our topic this month is: "Gaming the System: The Gamification of Education, Entrepreneurship and the Economy"

My board of directors is actively working to make this the best year in the history of BDPA Cincinnati. There’s lots of room for you to participate. Please join us!

Best Regards,
Clarence Larcarte, President
BDPA Cincinnati

Fluor Foundation

Established in 1952, the Fluor Foundation is funded by corporate contributions and endowment earnings. It is governed by a 9-member board of trustees composed of members from Fluor's senior management. The total worldwide Fluor contributions budget is determined as a percentage (1.5 to 2 percent) of the prior year's earnings before taxes. That budget totals approximately $5 to $6 million annually. (In 2007, Fluor and The Fluor Foundation will contribute $6 million to community organizations and education worldwide. Employees will add another $2.6 million with their donations to United Way, health and human services organizations and universities.)

Education
Focusing on educational organizations and programs, universities and schools (where almost half of our total company contributions are allocated), Fluor supports school/business partnerships and programs that help achieve the following objectives:

• Encouraging elementary/secondary students to pursue higher education/training, with an emphasis on engineering and construction
  
• Improving and enhancing math/science curricula
  
• Supporting teacher training in math/science
  
• Encouraging mentoring and economic literacy programs

Nongovernmental organizations or educational institutions wishing to request funding should make an initial inquiry in the form of a two- to three-page letter. If the proposal is of interest to Fluor, additional information will be requested. Requests are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Fluor Corporation receives many more worthwhile requests than can be funded. Consequently, contributions can only be made to a percentage of organizations considered. Up to two months should be allowed for a reply.

Geographic focus for this foundation is: National/International, California, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas and Washington.

If your chapter or national business area is located within these geographic focus areas ... then this might be a good funding source for your SITES programming. Just let us know in the COMMENTS section below if your chapter wants to pursue this funding source.

BDPA Chapters on Twitter

There are a growing number of BDPA chapters with Twitter accounts.  These are local BDPA chapters that wish to reach out to all current, former and future members via the Twitter network.   I encourage any BDPA members on Twitter to take a moment to follow their local chapter as shown on the following list:

1. Atlanta - @atlantabdpa
2. Baton Rouge - @bdpabatonrouge * NEW *
3. Charlotte - @bdpacharlotte
4. Chicago - @bdpachicago  
5. Cincinnati - @bdpacincy
6. Columbus - @bdpacolumbus
7. Dallas - @bdpadallas
8. Detroit - @bdpadetroit
9. Greater Columbia - @gcbdpa
10. Indianapolis - @bdpa_indy
11. Los Angeles - @bdpala
12. Memphis - @bdpamemphis
13. New Jersey - @bdpanewjersey 
14. New York - @bdpanewyork 
15. Orlando - @bdpaorlando
16. Philadelphia - @bdpaphilly 
17. Southern Minnesota - @smn_bdpa
18. St. Louis - @bdpastl
19. Twin Cities - @bdpatwincities
20. Washington DC - @bdpadc

Other BDPA-related Twitter accounts include:

1. National BDPA - @nationalbdpa
2. BDPA Education and Technology Foundation - @bdpa
3. BDPA Technology Conference - @bdpa_conference
4. BDPAToday - @bdpatoday

Finally, it should be noted that you can follow all BDPA chapters on Twitter by clicking here -- http://twitter.com/BDPA/bdpa-chapters.

Please let me know if there are other BDPA-related Twitter accounts that we should add to the above list.   We hope to eventually see all 46 local BDPA chapters with a Twitter account.

MillerCoors Renews Its Sponsorship of BDPA

We are proud to share that MillerCoors took the steps necessary to become a Gold-Level corporate sponsor of BDPA programs and services.  In addition, we are proud to announce that MillerCoors is also the 'Official Beverage Distributor of the 2013 BDPA Technology Conference'!

You can expect to see MillerCoors with a prominent location in the career fair as well as a corporate hospitality reception that will feature some great MillerCoors adult beverages (what is your favorite?). The company is also supporting BDPA Milwaukee and BDPA Chicago with in-kind facilities donations in CY-2013. Very cool!

Much props to Carmen Giles (MillerCoors corporate champion and the new president of our BDPA Milwaukee chapter) as well as ITSMF member and long-time BDPA leader and supporter Norman Fleming for working with BDPA to grow this mutually-beneficial corporate partnership!

Chichester duPont Foundation

Only nonprofit charitable organizations, exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, are eligible to receive a grant from Chicester duPont Foundation.

Organizations that develop an association and program understanding, with at least one trustee, experience the greatest likelihood of funding success. Preference is given to proposals for new initiatives, special projects, the expansion of current programs and capital improvement. The trustees devote particular emphasis to programs concerned with the environment, education, health care and those to which the Foundation’s giving will play a pivotal role.

The Foundation does not consider requests for programs outside the United States, and, in general, does not consider requests for more than $100,000. Grants are never made to individuals or to organizations carrying on propaganda, or attempting to influence legislation.

All grants must be received in the Foundation's offices no later than October 1. The Trustees meet on or about December 1 and grants are awarded and distributed on or before December 31.

Grants are usually awarded for one year only. Projects in areas the Foundation has a special interest may be considered for multi-year funding. Organizations may reapply from one year to the next. Only one grant application may be submitted in any calendar year. Organizations receiving grants are required to complete an evaluation report within twelve months after receipt of the funds.

Grants should be directed to:



Gregory F. Fields, Secretary
Chichester duPont Foundation
5720 Kennett Pike
P.O. Box 3598
Wilmington, DE 19807

Please let me know if your BDPA entity (local or national) is interested in applying for a grant proposal with this funding source.

Kohl's Fundraising Gift Card Program

Countless children and teenagers visit our homes each year encouraging us to buy everything from pizzas to wrapping paper to magazine subscriptions in order to raise money for their youth organizations. Kohl’s has created a simple, effective way to help raise much-needed funds for schools and nonprofit youth organizations, while, at the same time, eliminating many of the challenges characteristically associated with fundraising!

The Kohl's Fundraising Gift Card Program provides discounted fundraising gift cards to nonprofit, youth-serving organizations. These groups then sell the purchased cards at face value and keep the remaining profits. The more gift cards purchased, the higher the discount and the larger the profit. Kohl’s provides a 5% discount for purchases over $1,000 and 3% for total purchases between $500 and $900.

Visit the Kohl's website to learn more about this simple way to increase your organization’s fundraising results.

BDPA iRadio Show: March 26, 2013

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation (BETF) is very proud to be the creator of the BDPA iRadio Show. You can listen to the archive version of the show using the widget shown in the right-hand sidebar of this blog. FREE download from the iTunes Store is also available for our listeners!

Listen to internet radio with BDPA on Blog Talk Radio

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The guests on the March 26th show:

Dr. Craig Brown - National Vice President, BDPA - Dr. Craig Brown was elected to be National BDPA Vice President (2012-2013). He will work with incoming national president Monique Berry and the incoming regional officers to take BDPA to the next level. Dr. Brown has a 25 year career serving as an expert systems and database architect within leading technologies like Oracle, PeopleSoft, SAP, IBM and Microsoft. His experiences are more particular to the Enterprise Resource Planning, Decision Support and Relational Database Management Systems technologies. He earned over 20 certifications within these technological areas and currently provides implementation and integration expertise along with a variety of other technological disciplines. He holds a BS in Computer Science as well as a Master's in Business and a Doctorate in Management Information Systems. He has over 1 million followers on Twitter and thousands of followers on his Facebook page. Dr. Brown shared his vision for the future of BDPA with our BDPA iRadio Show audience. His twitter handle is @craigbrownphd

Beverly Allen - High School Computer Competition coordinator, BDPA Los Angeles - Beverly Allen has been the HSCC coordinator for our BDPA Los Angeles chapter for a number of years. She watched her son, Terell, participate in national HSCC championships in 2007-2009 before going off to college at Morehouse College. The computer camp program in Los Angeles is making remarkable progress under its leadership … including winning the bronze medal at the 2012 National HSCC championship. The 2013 computer camp program is underway with over 35 students. Beverly has a unique way to look at the BDPA Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program that will be of interest to BDPA-Nation. Her chapter's twitter handle is @bdpala

Jacqueline Sanders - VP, Education & Professional Development, BDPA Atlanta - Jacqueline is part of the BDPA Atlanta leadership team that is shaking up the nation. Her chapter won numerous honors at the 2012 national conference … and they have their eyes set on the largest prize of all – ‘Chapter of the Year’ – right now. A major part of that success can be found in the education and professional development programs that Jacqueline is providing for IT professionals in Atlanta. This includes an ambitious professional development boot camp. The boot camp provides an intense all-day interactive series of exercises to test and challenge participants soft skills. Participants leave with a personalized assessment, mentoring and a career roadmap. Her twitter handle is @RequirementsPro

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We hope you enjoy the insights and commentary on the show from each of these guests. Please take a moment to post a comment to let us know that you care!

BDPA Philadelphia Chapter President Receives Local NAACP Honor

BDPA Philadelphia chapter president Eileen Gadsden was honored by the NAACP Philadelphia as one of 104 Most Influential Women at an awards ceremony held March 24, 2013 in Philadelphia.

104 deserving women were chosen from the ranks of elected officials, entrepreneurs, non-profits, civic leaders, educators, labor leaders, members of the clergy, media, health care providers, government agency leaders, corporate America leaders, community leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs. Eileen was commended for her work as a community leader.  Eileen shared the following comment about the honor,

"I was surprised, humbled, and overjoyed by the idea of sharing such an accolade with 103 talented, driven and accomplished women. I am truly encouraged and will continue the work of BDPA to inspire students and professionals to pursue IT and other STEM related careers to reduce the digital divide and to secure our place as innovators and decision-makers in this global marketplace."

I encourage BDPA members to do their part in honoring Eileen by making a secure online donation to her fundraiser that supports college scholarships for High School Computer Competition students in Philadelphia.   Eileen is one of the hardest working BDPA members in the nation.  Please visit her fundraiser and make a donation today!

Procter & Gamble Renews Corporate Commitment to BDPA Cincinnati Chapter

Procter & Gamble renewed its commitment to BDPA as a Bronze-level corporate sponsor. This is the 4th consecutive year that P&G agreed to support BDPA Cincinnati chapter in a variety of areas including 20 corporate memberships, annual banquet table/advertisement, operational support and monthly program meeting support.

It is worth noting that P&G has been a member of the chapter's Corporate Advisory Council for over a decade ... and the current chapter president, Clarence Larcarte, is employed by the company. Employee involvement is always a powerful way to find corporate sponsorship success in BDPA!

Prudential Foundation

The Prudential Foundation invests over $25 million each year in grants that support the revitalization of communities and support Prudential employees' community engagement efforts.

The Prudential Foundation focuses its efforts in the following locations:

• Newark, NJ; and Hartford, CT. The Foundation makes significant investments through a combination of local and national partners to improve education, promote economic development, support the arts, and build the capacity of nonprofit organizations. The Newark Community Building Fund is a special initiative that supports grassroots organizations working to improve their neighborhoods and the quality of life of Newark residents.
• Philadelphia, PA; New York, NY; Chicago, IL; and Los Angeles, CA. In these locations, the Foundation looks for opportunities to improve education and engage in economic development efforts.
• Other cities. Dallas and Houston, TX; Dubuque, IA; Jacksonville, FL; Minneapolis, MN; Phoenix, AZ; and Scranton, PA. The Foundation focuses its efforts in education or economic development programs that provide opportunities for Prudential associates to be engaged.

To apply for funding, applicants must meet the specific criteria described in the Prudential Foundation Policies and Guidelines.

The Foundation receives and reviews proposals throughout the year. Grants that exceed $200,000 must be approved by the Board of Trustees, which meets three times a year, in February, June, and October. Staff responds to applicants within approximately 60 days.

For more information about The Prudential Foundation, please contact:


The Prudential Foundation
751 Broad Street, 15th Floor
Newark, NJ 07102-3777
(973) 802-4791
email: community.resources@prudential.com
It appears that this funding opportunity is open to our local BDPA chapters in Chicago, Dallas, Hartford, Houston, Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York, Philadelphia and Twin Cities. I hope that one of these chapters takes advantage of this funding opportunity!

Do you know any Prudential employees that might be willing to help us out?

Deloitte Invests in BDPA Silver Level Corporate Sponsorship

Built on the principles of leadership through excellence, Deloitte recently joined the growing list of Silver Level Corporate Sponsors for the 35th Annual National BDPA Technology Conference and Career Fair titled, “Diverse Opportunities In The Age of Convergence” on August 14-17, 2013 in Washington, DC.

Pamela Sexton

Pamela Sexton, National BDPA Conference Director stated,

“I'm very excited that Deloitte has renewed their partnership with BDPA. They have been a long time partner that has contributed to the success of our National BDPA Conference and our strategic goals. We look forward to 2013 and beyond. Thank you Deloitte for your renewed partnership."

Recognized for global expertise in audit, consulting, financial advisory, tax services, and risk management, Deloitte’s income in 2012 reached $13.07 billion. Since 1998, Deloitte continues to be recognized as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” according to FORTUNE magazine. This year, Deloitte won four top prizes at the Association of Management Consulting Firms awards ceremony in Growth Strategies, Supply Chain Performance Improvement, Human Capital, and Humanitarian categories.

"BDPA Philadelphia is appreciative of the strong corporate support we have received from Deloitte,” said Eileen Gadsden, BDPA Philadelphia chapter president. “We are thankful to our corporate champions Larry Quinlan, Deloitte chief information officer, and Hayward West, BDPA Philadelphia chapter past president, for ensuring we have not only financial support, but the time and talent of their world-class staff,” she added.

As a global member-focused technology organization with 46 active chapters in the United States, BDPA continues to stand as a leader in delivering 21st century technological programs, college scholarships, mentoring, support, and services for youth and adult Information Technology (IT) professionals. BDPA is honored to partner with a world class organization such as Deloitte.

For more information on the benefits of BDPA corporate sponsorship, contact Wayne Hicks, Director, Corporate Sales Department, corpsales@bdpa.org, (301) 584-3135.

Key & Associates Becomes a New BDPA Corporate Supporter

We are proud to announce another BDPA entrepreneur willing to invest in our corporate sponsorship program. Beatrice Key is the president of Key & Associates. Her company is a financial advisor for the BDPA Education and Technology Foundation. She invested in the Dr. Jesse Bemley Scholarship Fund to give out college scholarships to high-performing students in our annual High School Computer Competition championship.

Our hope is that we can recognize scores of BDPA entrepreneurs as part of our sponsorship program. Who's next?

National Women's History Month - Franne McNeal (Black History Maker)

During National Women's History Month, Roger Madison (CEO, iZania) is featuring some of the prominent Black Women entrepreneurs who have been meaningful to our historical journey as an online community. The cool thing is that one of our own was featured this week! Franne McNeal is the hostess of the bi-weekly BDPA iRadio Show. She was honored by iZania as its National Women's History Month Black History Maker.

The narrative read as follows:

Franne McNeal is a serial entrepreneur with corporate expertise that spans four industries, seven positions and thirty years in business. As a junior at Princeton University, she launched a successful catering recruiting business for student bartenders and wait staff and never looked back. When Franne was 26 years old, she was the youngest person ever to be awarded a professional services training contract with the City of Pittsburgh; and successfully financed her 18-computer training room in 1-month.

In 2001, Franne created Significant Business Results, an executive coaching practice, to help her clients approach business challenges with a fresh perspective grounded in market realities and creative optimism. Significant Business Results Coach, Franne McNeal is engaged by clients to create strategic plans, generate business opportunities, identify revenue streams, and re-evaluate systems. Franne is committed to ensuring that her clients grow brand value, manage cash flow, and increase profits by leveraging people, performance and process.

Franne's clients include: The Kauffman Foundation, Temple University, ModernThink, Priority Management, The Corporation for Positive Change, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, The Social Security Administration, The State of Delaware, The City of New York, State University of New York, Women's Business Development Center, and Elohim Cleaning Contractors Inc.

In corporate leadership positions at Strategic Computer Assistance Inc, Mellon Bank, FMC, and SmithKline Beecham, as well as Vice President of Training and Development at PNC Financial Services, Franne led restructuring initiatives that resulted in over $1M in measurable savings.

Ms. McNeal's work has been recognized through a Citation from the Mayor of Philadelphia; the Perseverance Award from Eastern University; and the 100 Most Influential Black Women in Philadelphia Award. She has appeared on CBS-TV and NBC-TV; been quoted in Black Enterprise Magazine and the Philadelphia Inquirer.

As a moderator for the Project for Civic Engagement, a facilitator for America Speaks, and a facilitator for the Kauffman Foundation's FastTrac® programs, Franne continues to contribute to community education initiatives. In 2009. Franne became a member of the e200 class sponsored by the Philadelphia District Office of the US Small Business Administration. Franne currently serves as a member of the West Chester University MBA Advisory Board, and she is a volunteer mentor for a 4th grade class in the Philadelphia Public School District.

Ms. Franne McNeal earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University and an MBA from Eastern University in Pennsylvania. Learn more at www.frannemcneal.com.

We are proud to highlight Franne's 30 year history in business as a model for women of the 21st Century.

Franne engages with young people at 2012 BDPA Conference

Franne has been a strong and consistent supporter of the BDPA mission and vision for many years. She is a proud member of our BDPA Philadelphia chapter and we are very honored to join in saluting her as a Black History Maker!

Wordless Wednesday: Future Faces of Technology (2012 BDPA Conference)

SOURCE: Flickr, BDPA Foundation Photostream

Dell Member Purchase Program: BDPA (March 2013)

It’s our pleasure to share Dell’s Member Purchase Program's (MPP) March communications with our BDPA and BDPA Foundation supporters!

A few callouts from Dell’s March flyer:

1. Pick a Gift Promotion. Buy select PC’s $499.99 and pick a gift - offer valid from 3-4-13 to 4-3-13 and will be found on the MPP homepage
2. Companion offer. Buy systems over $783.99 and add an XPS 10 tablet for only $299.99 – offer valid from 3-4-13 to 3-28-13
3. XPS 8500 for $783.99, with an Intel i7, 8GB of memory, 1TB hard drive

Dell Member Purchase Program: BDPA (Mar 2013) from BDPA Foundation

How to shop:

• Continue to Earn Rewards with Dell Advantage: Employees can also earn 5% cash back with a Dell promo eGift Card and free 2nd day shipping on any purchase. Register now at: www.Dell.com/mpp/bdpaadvantage 
• Shop online at www.Dell.com/mpp/bdpa 
• Give us a call at 888-243-9964 and reference Member ID: CS127235942

Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help drive awareness of Dell’s Member Purchase Program to BDPA supporters.

Message from Houston Chapter President

Dr. Craig Brown

BDPA Houston Chapter has established a new membership of 30 people and has been active since March 2012. Below are a few points that represent some of the most recent activity:

• Rejuvenated to an active status
• Relationship building with local corporations
• Relationship building with local schools
• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with Barbara Jordan Endeavors offering STEM for Children with unique abilities and our HSCC program.

The MOU is significant because it involved over 15 High Schools totaling 120 students that that are interested in STEM programs. These kids have special needs so our HSCC program has to be modified to include kid with special abilities.

Sincerely,
Dr. Craig Brown, president
BDPA Houston Chapter

Message from BDPA Cincinnati President

It’s an exciting time to be a part of BDPA Cincinnati!  Why? When talent, passion and commitment collide, how can that NOT be exciting??!!!

Clarence Larcarte

The leadership of the organization is so full of energy it amazing! Let me introduce you to them:

• Clarence Larcarte - President
• Steve Gutter -VP, Finance
• Prince Ellis - VP, Strategy and Planning
• Dalric Webb - VP, Membership Management
• Open - VP, Membership Services
• Deborah Prince- Director, Outreach
• Open - Director, Recruiting and Retention
• Ernest Gause - Director, Marketing
• Braxton Washington - Director, Communication
• Frank Hill - Coordinator, Student IT Education & Scholarships (SITES)
• Brenda Hogan - Webmaster
• Wanda Gray - Immediate Past President

In 2013, we push forward with our mission of advancing Information Technology (IT) careers from the classroom to the boardroom. We live out this mission through youth-oriented programs such as SITES, High School Computer Competition, TECHie Club and IT Showcase as well as monthly professional program meetings and quarterly workshops.

If you’ve been around BDPA Cincinnati at all in the past this may sound familiar, but I can assure you that it is not business as usual. Any organization which hopes to remain vibrant and relevant must constantly adapt and BDPA is no exception. So, our leadership think tank has come up with creative new ideas as well as new spins on old ideas so that we can continue to provide value to our members. You can see some snip-its below, but if you really want to learn how you can benefit or how you can help, you really should join us.

Our efforts center around the creation of a vibrant pipeline of IT talent, with our events being centered around the concepts of LEARN MORE, EARN MORE, DO MORE!!

LEARN MORE: Build new skills and strengthen old ones - Get youth involved early in IT or learn a new professional and/or technical skill to apply towards your current career or to land a new position or promotion.

• SITES – HSCC, IT Showcase
• Techie Club
• Quarterly Technical Workshops
• Monthly Program Meetings - March 20th - Blacks In Technology

EARN MORE: Use your new skills and expanding network to improve your financial position - Translate your academic prowess into financial success

• J.O.B—Jobs Opportunities Board
• Yearly Career Fair
• Professional Networking (Spring/Summer Mixers)
• Entrepreneurship SIG
• BDPA Job Board, www.ITDiversityCareers.com

DO MORE: Use your talents to improve your community - Each one, teach one.

• Volunteerism - Mentor IT Professionals
• Volunteerism—Serve on the Board of BDPA
• Be a TECHie Club Volunteer

We are excited to partner with you to create a promising IT future!!

Best Regards,
Clarence Larcarte, President
BDPA Cincinnati Chapter