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.

---

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

---

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.

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

I am a student at Cuyahoga Community College in Cleveland, Ohio and became aware of a mentoring program there through the Black American Council. My mentor has helped me both professionally and personally. He ensured that I stayed on track with all of my math courses to achieve my Associate Degree.

My mentor also introduced me to the National Technical Association (NTA), the nation’s oldest professional organization supporting minorities in engineering and technology. Through NTA I am deeply involved with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and participate in robotics competitions, STEM presentations along with other activities that help prepare me for science careers. With the help of my mentor, by engaging in the programs that my mentor helps provide, I’ve grown a great deal in STEM knowledge and experience.

Importantly, my mentor inspires me by the way he gives back to the community. One day, thanks to the example that my mentor shows through his support, dedication and passion, I will mentor other students so they can also follow the path of a great journey to success.

Alisa Smith, Computer Network Technology Student
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, Ohio

---

Alisa’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 Alisa’s in our community.

Believe in Ohio: 'Creating Creators'

Management consulting guru, Peter Drucker, famously said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

What if I told you that you could be an enabler who helps “create creators”? Would you be interested? STEM careers and entrepreneurship create jobs, create economies, and create the future.

That’s why we are looking for 100 mentors in the next 100 days to be a part of the Urban STEM Mentoring Network. Our mission is to find mentors to guide urban students to be “creators” and not just consumers.

We have students waiting for you.

Urban youth are consumers – consumers of products, consumers of fashion, consumers of the idea that they may be limited by their environment and situation. The Urban STEM Mentoring Network was started to help broaden that perspective.

I need STEM professionals and entrepreneurs, like you, to help make a change. The next Grace Hopper (invented COBOL programming language), John Thompson (not the basketball coach, but the Microsoft Chairman), Steve Jobs or Mark Zuckerberg, could be waiting for you in Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo and Cincinnati to help them become creators.

In as little as 1 hour per month, you can support a motivated student along the path of job creation. Your task will be to simply coach a young person through a scripted process – the Roadmap to Future Jobs & Prosperity - to prepare them to compete for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash awards and scholarships.

Yes, this can be done in about 1 hour per month.

The Believe in Ohio Urban STEM Mentoring Network Team is ready to assist you to be the one to help “create creators” in our urban centers.

Click on www.believeinohio.org/mentor-signup/ to get the process started today!

Believe in Ohio: You are the Perfect Mentor

Let’s get right to the point. You are the perfect mentor if…

• You are able to provide encouragement.
• You believe in supporting the dreams of African American and Latino students.
• You have just 1 hour per month to coach a student to pursue hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash awards and scholarships.

The point is - I need you to be a part of the Urban STEM Mentoring Networking Program. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stated, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'"

The 20th century, often called the “American Industrial Century”, was a time when Ohio and other states comprised the world’s preeminent economic force. The 21st century can be called the “Global Innovation Century”. Today, facing unprecedented world competition, Ohio cannot reach its economic goals without contributions from many more Ohioans, including underserved, urban populations.

To build a more competitive, resilient and prosperous economy, Ohio must begin to intentionally connect African Americans and Latinos in urban areas to the state’s science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-driven, Innovation Economy. The Believe in Ohio program does just that.

Believe in Ohio provides urban students deep exposure to STEM disciplines, uniquely enhanced with entrepreneurship tools. To ensure broad participation in the program, Believe in Ohio has adopted Inclusive Competitiveness – an interdisciplinary framework to improve the performance of underrepresented Ohioans in the Innovation Economy – to help urban students become more successful STEM education competitors and economic contributors.

Young people in urban centers need to know that the true path to success is to fill the dual pipelines of productivity – becoming “intrapreneurial” employees and job creating entrepreneurs in next generation industries. These industries are largely in STEM areas that represent our state’s present and future economic promise.

That’s why Believe in Ohio created the Urban STEM Mentoring Network . . . and we need your help this school year!

Believe in Ohio needs STEM and business professionals and entrepreneurs, like you, to show the way. In as little as 1 hour per month, you can support a motivated student along the path of this new century economy. Your task will be to simply coach a young person through a scripted process – the Roadmap to Future Jobs & Prosperity - to prepare them to compete for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash awards and scholarships. Yes, this can be done in about 1 hour per month.

The Believe in Ohio Urban STEM Mentor Network Support Team is ready to assist you to be the one to make an impact on our urban youth.

Click on http://www.believeinohio.org/mentor-signup/ to get the process started today!

Believe in Ohio: Let's Change the Headline

On the night of July 4, 2015 Cleveland’s Channel 5 ran a headline “5 Children Shot in Cleveland over Fourth of July”. Although this headline is specific to Cleveland, it could have happened in Cincinnati, Columbus or any other major city in Ohio. I believe that we have the opportunity to help change the headline and the future for children in urban areas.

By next March, I want the headline to read, “5 Cincinnati Public School Students Win over $45,000 in Scholarships and Awards”. This is possible….

The 20th century, often called the “American Industrial Century”, was a time when Ohio and other states comprised the world’s preeminent economic force. The 21st century can be called the “Global Innovation Century”. Today, facing unprecedented world competition, Ohio cannot reach its economic goals without contributions from many more Ohioans, including underserved, urban populations.

To build a more competitive, resilient and prosperous economy, Ohio must begin to intentionally connect African Americans and Latinos in urban areas to the state’s science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-driven, Innovation Economy. The Believe in Ohio program does just that.

Believe in Ohio provides urban students deep exposure to STEM disciplines, uniquely enhanced with entrepreneurship tools. To ensure broad participation in the program, Believe in Ohio has adopted Inclusive Competitiveness – an interdisciplinary framework to improve the performance of underrepresented Ohioans in the Innovation Economy – to help urban students become more successful STEM education competitors and economic contributors.

Young people in urban centers need to know that the true path to success is to fill the dual pipelines of productivity – becoming “intrapreneurial” employees and job creating entrepreneurs in next generation industries. These industries are largely in STEM areas that represent our state’s present and future economic promise.

That’s why Believe in Ohio created the Urban STEM Mentor Network . . . and we need your help this school year!

Believe in Ohio needs STEM and business professionals and entrepreneurs, like you, to show the way. In as little as 1 hour per month, you can support a motivated student along the path of this new century economy. Your task will be to simply coach a young person through a scripted process – the Roadmap to Future Jobs & Prosperity - to prepare them to compete for close to $1 million in scholarships and awards. Yes, this can be done in about 1 hour per month.

The Believe in Ohio Urban STEM Mentor Network Support Team is ready to assist you to be the one to make an impact on our urban youth.

Click on http://www.ohiosci.org/mentor-signup to get started today and help to rewrite the leading story.

Believe in Ohio: Will you be the one?

In the urban areas, bootstraps were not always readily available. Our success came by way of community support - a teacher, church member or volunteer coach. Sheer drive alone, often was not enough to help us prosper and excel. We were fortunate to have someone there to guide and mentor us along the way.

Many African American professionals and entrepreneurs left the cities to live in the expanse of the suburbs. Therefore, it begs the question, who is left to give young people guidance to see the possibilities of 21st professional and technology driven careers? Will you be the one to one to lend your support?

The 20th century, often called the “American Industrial Century”, was a time when Ohio and other states comprised the world’s preeminent economic force. The 21st century can be called the “Global Innovation Century”.   Today, facing unprecedented world competition, Ohio cannot reach its economic goals without contributions from many more Ohioans, including underserved, urban populations.

To build a more competitive, resilient and prosperous economy, Ohio must begin to intentionally connect African Americans and Latinos in urban areas to the state’s science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-driven, Innovation Economy. The Believe in Ohio program does just that.

Believe in Ohio provides urban students deep exposure to STEM disciplines, uniquely enhanced with entrepreneurship tools. To ensure broad participation in the program, Believe in Ohio has adopted Inclusive Competitiveness – an interdisciplinary framework to improve the performance of underrepresented Ohioans in the Innovation Economy – to help urban students become more successful STEM education competitors and economic contributors.

Young people in urban centers need to know that the true path to success is to fill the dual pipelines of productivity – becoming “intrapreneurial” employees and job creating entrepreneurs in next generation industries. These industries are largely in STEM areas that represent our state’s present and future economic promise.

That’s why Believe in Ohio has created the Urban STEM Mentor Network . . . and we need your help.

Believe in Ohio needs STEM and business professionals and entrepreneurs, like you, to show the way. In as little as 1 hour per month, you can support a motivated student along the path of this new century economy. Your task will be to simply coach a young person through a scripted process – the Roadmap to Future Jobs & Prosperity - to prepare them to compete for close to $1 million in scholarships and awards. Yes, this can be done in about 1 hour per month.

The Believe in Ohio Urban STEM Mentor Network Support Team is ready to assist you to be the one to make an impact on our urban youth.

Click on http://www.ohiosci.org/mentor-signup to get started today.

Technology Expresso Cafe: BDPA Atlanta Virtual Membership Meeting (9/17/2013)

BDPA Atlanta chapter uses a technology podcast to connect with its membership. This virtual membership meeting was hosted by Jacqueline Sanders and David Blackman on their Internet radio show, Technology Expresso Cafe. The meeting featured insights from a number of chapter leaders, including the new chapter president Derrick Brown.

The featured guest speaker was Sharnecia Williams (Macy's Systems & Technology):

New Technology Podcasts with Tech Expresso Cafe on BlogTalkRadio

BDPA Atlanta is the 4th-largest BDPA chapter in the nation ... and one reason for that success is the willingness of the chapter to reach out to IT professionals in a variety of unique formats and platforms.

Black Male Mentoring Programs

I encourage all 'BDPAers' to find a way to support Black Male Mentoring Month in January 2013.

Perhaps you can help influence those schools, faith organizations, community organizations, fraternities and sororities in your sphere of influence to create and manage mentoring programs during January 2013 for young Black men. You can find ways to help at the National Cares Mentoring Movement or Mentoring USA. You will find a number of leaders in the mentoring movement at either of those websites.

Many of pulling together events for Black Male Mentoring Day -- January 19, 2013 -- which also happens to be the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Please call the Black Star Project at 773.285-9600 to get an organizing kit to create a mentoring program in your community or your city.

The choice is ours ... either strong, positive Black men will mentor Black boys or somebody else will and we probably won't like the results!

ITSMF: The Leadership Academy

The Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF) is a unique organization of African American executives in the information technology industry. They are currently recruiting IT professionals of color to participate in their 3-prong Leadership Academy.

ITSMF: The Leadership Academy

View more documents from Wayne Hicks

I encourage BDPAers to share this information with any leaders you may know in the information technology industry.

ITSMF: Executive Protege Program

I spent eight years in the Senior Executive Service (SES) with the federal government before striking out to start my own company. It is difficult to travel a career path in the information technology (IT) industry through the glass ceiling to the executive level.

One way to make that journey is with the help of a mentor. As such, I can sincerely recommend that any African American IT professional that is currently in a management position ... who feels that (s)he has executive potential should take a moment to learn about the Executive Protege Program (EPP) offered by the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF).

ITSMF exists is to fill the executive pipeline with the next generation of African American executives. The EPP provides the mentoring and networking that mid-level IT managers need to advance their IT careers to the senior and C-level. I am not aware of any other national mentoring program focused on cultivating executive talent among African American IT professionals.

Check out this brief video to learn more about the program from brothers and sisters who participate in it either as mentors or protegees.

Well, BETF-Blog readers ... are you interested in learning more about EPP or ITSMF?

BDPA Teaches Technology to Teens in Baton Rouge

BlueCross BlueShield of Louisiana (BCBSLA) published the following article in their internal newsletter:

---

BCBSLA employees and sisters Glenda Chappell (Senior Programmer Analyst, Actuarial Systems) and Billie Davis-Lomas (Senior Business Engineering Analyst, IT-Medical Management/Managed Care) spend their Saturday mornings preparing local teens for their futures in higher education and the workforce.

Billie Davis-Lomas, far left, and her sister and Blue Cross coworker Glenda Chappell, far right, pose with some of the teens they mentor through Black Data Processing Associates.

Chappell and Davis-Lomas work with an organization called BDPA Baton Rouge (BDPA-BR). Chappell is one of the chapter’s charter members. Both sisters have been involved in the organization for decades, serving in cities across the nation.

BDPA-BR provides hands-on computer training and skill-building exercises for local students. With an emphasis on team building, presentation skills and professional etiquette, each BDPA class is led by local volunteer mentors like Chappell and Davis-Lomas. Students are guided by their mentors to compete for scholarships at regional and national conferences, which are often attended by top-level executives from companies like Microsoft and QVC.

“We don’t just teach them computer skills. We teach them how to conduct themselves in a professional setting, which is something they can always use,” says Davis-Lomas.

“The students are very enthusiastic and eager to start creating projects,” Chappell adds. “It’s very rewarding to see them succeed.”

BDPA-BR is open to all middle- and high-school students, and the Baton Rouge chapter targets those considered “at-risk” because of socioeconomic factors.
BDPA-BR is a professional organization for information technology professionals, providing community service and professional development opportunities for its members. The group is open to those working in the IT field and other technology-focused careers.

If you are interested in supporting BDPA-BR, the organization is looking for members, volunteer instructors and financial support for supplies and conference fees. BDPA-BR is on Blue Cross’ list of qualified non-profit organizations for which the company will match financial gifts beginning at $100 (up to $1,500 annually).

To learn more about BDPA, visit their website or follow the group on Facebook or Twitter. You may also contact them by e-mail.

I have known Glenda and Billie for many years. BDPA Baton Rouge is lucky to have both of them as chapter leaders. I look for great things to come from Louisiana in the coming months and years!

Can BDPA Expand SITES Program to Elementary School Students With Tech Corps?

I drove out to Columbus Ohio in order to meet with Lisa Chambers, Tech Corps Ohio state director. BDPA Columbus chapter member Andre Young joined us in a discussion about possible strategic alliance with Tech Corps on local and national level.

Lisa shared with me the 15+ years of history for Tech Corps. The group was founded in 1995 by Gary Beach, Publisher Emeritus of CIO Magazine. Tech Corps is committed to enhancing K-12 education through the effective use of technology by recruiting, placing and supporting volunteers and by developing partnerships between schools and the community.

Tech Corps programs have evolved over time. Lisa shared with me insights on the Student Tech Corps and Girl Tech Corps programs. However, we spent most of our discussion talking about the TECHie Club and Summer Camp (Elementary School or Middle School)

The TECHie Club is an after-school program for 3-5 grade students. It is a very intense program that puts a greater emphasis on computer science than some other programs. There are modules focused on programming, robotics, digital media and web development. The young 'uns are able to communicate amongst themselves and with other TECHie Clubs around the nation on a blogging platform provided by Tech Corps.


TECHie Club is a program with a proven curriculum. The students, schools and parents are very excited about the program. Volunteers are needed to facilitate the TECHie Club experience. Each TECHie Club (maximum of 20 students) typically meet weekly for 90-120 minutes throughout the school year. Schools designate a Site Coordinator to manage students and assist volunteers. TECH CORPS staff trains teams of tech-savvy volunteers to use the TECHie Club Implementation Guide and Lessons to introduce students to computing topics.

In my opinion, this is a remarkable opportunity for BDPA members and leaders. We have a remarkable K-12 youth education program, Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) -- however, our program is heavily focused on high school programs. Only one chapter (Richmond) works consistently with elementary students. It seems like great synergy for BDPA members to volunteer to work with TECHie Club. Don't you agree?

Here are current TECHie Club volunteer opportunities in Ohio. Of course, you can get more details from Lisa Chambers by email or phone (614.583-9211).

There is also a strong Tech Corps Texas organization that seeks volunteers from BDPA members and other BETF-Blog readers.

I am making a personal commitment to identify volunteers for the TECHie Club start-ups in three Cincinnati elementary schools -- Hartwell, Kilgour and Mount Washington.

Do you think BDPA is ready to expand its SITES program to help 3rd, 4th and 5th graders in elementary school?

BDPA Charlotte Chapter Supports eMentor Program at Garinger New Technology High School

BDPA Charlotte seeks to provide male mentors for the eMentor program at Garinger New Technology High School. This program is designed to pair up students with professionals in careers related to Information Technology, Science, Math and Engineering.

The Mentees: High School students grade 10-12. Garinger New Technology HS student population is 66% African American, 19% Hispanic, 5% Asian and 8% White. Additionally 68% of the students use the free or reduced price lunch program.

The Mentors: The program requests that BDPA mentor a student through the academic year and communicate weekly through email. Additionally, each mentor must register as a volunteer with CMS online.

Outcome: To encourage students in their studies and build their interests in STEM careers, to be a sounding board for students about their interest and concerns about college, and to share your experiences that will prove helpful to the students lives.

Additional PERK: As the program typically matches the student with a mentor of the same gender, there is an exceptional need for more male volunteers. To note, 2/3 of the students participating in this program are male. How awesome is that! Our young males are interested in STEM careers, so to answer their call BDPA Charlotte are offering $25 off of BDPA membership for the first 10 new male members that also sign up to be an eMentor.

Questions? Contact Melandee Jones or Colette Nichols of the eMentoring program.

20 Ways to be a Great Mentor

Generally I think that informal mentoring programs are better than formal ones.  However, I must admit that an exception to the rule is the ITSMF Executive Protege Program (EPP).  The mission of the EPP is to fill the next generation of African American executives.  EPP provides the mentoring and networking that mid-level IT managers need to advance their IT careers to the senior and C-level.  It is the only national mentoring program focused on cultivating executive talent among African American IT professionals.

I can vouch that one of the most important elements of personal and professional success is the influence of a sincere and caring mentor.  Mentoring not only helps build and support a foundation of success for the protege, it also provides a great opportunity for you to build your leadership skills and management.

A great deal of the success of the ITSMF EPP can be found in the fact that ITSMF mentors are primarily Black CIOs.   After all, to be an effective mentor, the protege has to have a true appreciation of the mentor and what she has achieved in life and in their career.

Mentors must establish an open and honest relationship where both have the freedom to be themselves.  With that freedom comes the ability to talk openly and share information that will help build the relationship into a positive and progressive one that can last a lifetime.

Here are 20 ways to be a great mentor:

1. Ask your protege to share specific items they can share with you to expand your horizons.
2. Be forgiving of your protegee, allow them to make mistakes.
3. Be sure to listen aggressively and encourage them to speak as freely as possible.
4. Challenge your protege to build in weak skills; provide rewards accordingly.
5. Demand that your protege operates at the highest personal and professional levels possible.
6. Don't try to provide answers, but rather effectively lead them to the right choices.
7. Have fun with your protege -- keep it light.
8. Help them identify clear goals and objectives for the year.
9. Help your protege see their growth and progress through your eyes.
10. Insist your protege read great stuff; share books and magazine articles to discuss and teach from.
11. Learn and share birthdays, holidays and special occassions in the year.
12.  Learn your protege's likes and dislikes to understand their fears and dreams.
13. Never allow them to make excuses or steer away from that which is ethical and moral.
14. Organize outings with them at least once per quarter.
15. Provide exposure to someone or something new and relevant.
16. Share 'life lessons', even the foolish ones you now regret.
17. Share your history of setbacks.
18. Speak favorably about your protege.  Expose them to others who are positive and progressive.
19. Spend at least an hour per month with your protege.
20. Take the time to learn their family background.

Anyhow, I encourage any BETF-Blog reader interested in attaining Senior or Executive level leadership positions in information technology to check out the ITSMF EPP.  For more information about the ITSMF Executive Protege Program, contact the EPP coordinator by email (epp@bdpa.org) or phone (800.727-2372).

What is your personal experience with the mentoring process?

Second Chance Mentoring Grants

Grants of up to $300,000 will be awarded under the FY 2010 Second Chance Act Mentoring Grants to Nonprofit Organizations, administered by the federal Bureau of Justice Assistance.

Call (877) 464-2066 for additional information.

Do Any of the Outstanding Science, Math, Engineering Teachers or Mentors Support BDPA?

Did you see where President Barack Obama named more than 100 science, math, and engineering teachers and mentors as recipients of two prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence? I wonder if any of these educators are aware of the Student Information Technology Education & Scholarship (SITES) program implemented by BDPA in 45 cities around the nation?

Anyhow, the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, awarded each year to individuals or organizations, recognizes the crucial role that mentoring plays in the academic and personal development of students studying science or engineering and who belong to minorities that are underrepresented in those fields. By offering their time, encouragement and expertise to these students, mentors help ensure that the next generation of scientists and engineers will better reflect the diversity of the United States.

Candidates for the Presidential Mentoring Award are nominated by colleagues, administrators, and students from their home institutions. The mentoring can involve students at any grade level from elementary through graduate school. In addition to being honored at the White House, recipients receive awards of $10,000 to advance their mentoring efforts.

The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is awarded annually to the best pre-college-level science and math teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process done at the state level. Each year the award alternates, going either to science and math teachers in grades K through 6 (as it did in 2009) or to those teaching in grades 7 through 12.

"There is no higher calling than furthering the educational advancement of our nation’s young people and encouraging and inspiring our next generation of leaders," President Obama said. "These awards represent a heartfelt salute of appreciation to a remarkable group of individuals who have devoted their lives and careers to helping others and in doing so have helped us all."

The individuals and organizations receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring in 2009 are:

• Frank T. Bayliss Jr., San Francisco State University, CA
• Laura Lynne J. Bottomley, North Carolina State University, NC
• Goldie S. Byrd, North Carolina A&T State University, NC
• Suzzette F. Chopin, Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, TX
• Lesia L. Crumpton-Young, University of Central Florida , FL
• Patricia A. DeLeon, University of Delaware, DE
• Nancy L. Elwess, SUNY College, Plattsburgh, NY
• Benjamin C. Flores, University of Texas, El Paso, TX
• Susan M. Kauzlarich, University of California, Davis, CA
• Philip Kutzko, University of Iowa, IA
• Cato T. Laurencin, University of Virginia, VA
• Jerzy R. Leszczynski, Jackson State University, MS
• Mary Anne Nelson, University of New Mexico, NM
• Steven B. Oppenheimer, California State University, Northridge, CA
• Stacy Phelps, Chief Executive Officer, The American Indian Institute for Innovation, SD
• Ashanti Johnson, University of South Florida and Institute for Broadening Participation, FL
• Kennedy J. Reed, Lawrence Livermore Natl. Lab. and the University of California, CA
• Kenneth S. Sajwan, Savannah State University, GA
• Richard N. Zare, Stanford University, CA
• Leadership Alliance, Providence, RI
• Maria Mitchell Association, Nantucket, MA
• Project Exploration, Chicago, IL

The individuals receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2009 are:

• Vickie Ahlstrom, Lehi, UT
• Charles Bertsch, Polson, MT
• Mary Black, Dubuque, IA
• Georgia Boatman, Kennewick, WA
• Michele Brees, SeaTac, WA
• Stacie Broden, Southbury, CT
• James Brown, Albany, NY
• Sharon Brown, Middle River, MD
• Jane Callery, East Hartford, CT
• Susan Carter, University City, MO
• Cary Cermak-Rudolf, Roseburg, OR
• Melissa Collins, Memphis, TN
• Kathleen Conroy, Charlotte, NC
• Zan Coonce, Reno, NV
• Jo Anne Deshon, Newark, DE
• Jeri Doane, Edmond, OK
• Kari Dombrovski, Saint Cloud, MN
• Keri Dowdy, Mayfield, KY
• Christa Duthie-Fox, Charlotte, VT
• Candy Ellard, Austin, TX
• Amy Ellis, Starkville, MS
• Gay Lynn Erb, Caldwell, ID
• Kathryn Eyolfson, Aurora, CO
• Diana Fesmire, Alamogordo, NM
• Erin Flynn, Roslindale, MA
• Karen Fredricks, Newark, DE
• Christi Fricks, Anderson, SC
• Sharon Hall, Maineville, OH
• Lana Hansen, Centennial, CO
• Angela Hansen Cook, Fargo, ND
• Michelle Harris, Anita, IA
• Sherry Helus, Wamego, KS
• Kathleen Hill, Whitefish, MT
• Rebecca Holden, Chattanooga, TN
• Laura Ann Hulsebus, Eagle River, AK
• David Ireland, Rapid City, SD
• Dana Islas, Tucson, AZ
• Haley James, Toney, AL
• Kristen Jarboe, Frankfort, KY
• Linda Kehr, Klamath Falls, OR
• Sandra Kelish, Fredericksburg, VA
• Barbara Kelley, Grapevine, TX
• Rebecca Kitts, Pierre, SD
• Amy Knerr, Carmel, IN
• Susan Kunze, Bishop, CA
• Anne Magaha, Rydal, PA
• Mildred Marin-Torres, Yauco, PR
• Loreen McMains, Omaha, NE
• Mary Beth Meggett, Charleston, SC
• Teresa Minogue, Canterbury, NH
• Patricia Morgan, Norman, OK
• Kimberly Mueller, Lumberton, NJ
• Susan Naylor, Parkersburg, WV
• Karen Nesbit, Franklin, WI
• Cathleen Newton, White River Junction, VT
• Jennifer Norford, Charlotte Amalie, VI
• Monica Norwood, Little Rock, AR
• Suzanne O'Brien, Macomb, MI
• Halley Page, Athens, GA
• Sally Pellegrin, Cleveland, OH
• Carrie Persing, Chester, VA
• Jon Phillips, Waterford, MI
• Suzanne Pilon, Hilton, NY
• Sara Rebecca Pittard, Ormond Beach, FL
• Susan Poage, Berkeley Heights, NJ
• Kendra Pullen, Shreveport, LA
• Amy Radden, Evansville, WY
• Charles Reynes, Castro Valley, CA
• Debra Reynolds, Baton Rouge, LA
• Kamilla Riek, Saint Louis, MO
• Jennifer Rising, Lake Forest, IL
• Natalie Robinson, Pleasant Grove, UT
• Patia Rountree, Brooklet, GA
• Regina Scott, Franklin, IN
• Deborah Seaver, Milford, MA
• Wendy Shelden, Rockledge, FL
• Cheryl Silcox, White Mountain, AK
• Jeanette Simmons, Pontotoc, MS
• Kimberly Spencer, Yarmouth, ME
• Barbara Stoflet, Minnetonka, MN
• Melinda Storey, Mountain Brook, AL
• Carol Swink Wooten, Raleigh, NC
• DeAnn Swofford, Gardner, KS
• Liane Tanigawa, Aiea, HI
• Pamela Thompson, Madison, ME
• Nola Wilkinson, Decatur, IL
• Seanyelle Yagi, Honolulu, HI

Do you know any of these educators or mentors honored last year? If not, we have a chance to make a difference ... the deadline for nominating an educator in your city to receive this award is still a few months away!

Feedback: Parents of HSCC Alumni Lee Reed (Chicago)

Lee Reed, Jr. was the captain of the high school computer competition team trained by BDPA Chicago chapter. Lee earned $13,000 in scholarships from BDPA for his participation in our youth education programs. Also, he won three computers, a printer, an iPod, a Zune, a nice watch, and an XBox 360 Elite. Not to mention complimentary all-expense paid trips to seven of the 50 states.

Do you ever wonder how parents of our HSCC alumni feel about BDPA? I don't recall ever seeing anything written by a parent before. As such, we are proud to share with you words from the parents of Lee Reed Jr. Here is what they wrote:

---

As you know, we are so appreciative of the experience and knowledge that Lee has gained as a student member of BDPA! Because of BDPA, Lee is comfortable speaking with C-level executives, as well as his peers. This past summer, Lee interned with JP Morgan Chase, a BDPA supporter. Because of the comfort level that Lee gained speaking with executives through his BDPA involvement, the CFO of his division at JP Morgan Chase, as well as other top-ranking executives, became his personal mentors.

BDPA teaches the students teamwork and networking skills; how to facilitate meetings, deliver speeches, plan, organize and execute, in addition, to programming. In addition, Lee was taught how to conduct himself at conventions, and has traveled with BDPA to Atlanta, Detroit, Cincinnati, Dallas, Indianapolis, Los Angeles and Washington DC.

When Lee applied to colleges, he was able to demonstrate skills by reference in his college and scholarship applications, because he learned them through BDPA. Lee was accepted with scholarships to: Duke, Carnegie Mellon, Northwestern, Georgia Tech, University of Illinois, and the University of Michigan. He is currently enrolled at the University of Michigan in engineering. He was awarded the U of M Bell scholarship, ($80,000), primarily, because of his computer skills and other skills he acquired as a member of BDPA. All in all, Lee received $150,000 in total scholarships (full-ride), that will be used toward tuition, room and board and fees at U of Michigan.

Colleges are looking for students with the background that BDPA teaches its students. I encourage all parents to introduce BDPA to other students, families and friends. Lee plans on being a lifetime member of BDPA, and will be a participant at future events and conventions, further expanding his knowledge base.

Thank you,
Mr. and Mrs. Reed
Lee Reed's parents

---

Are you a parent? If so, what do you think about what Mr. and Mrs. Reed had to say?

5 Ways to Use Web 2.0 Technologies for Mentoring

by Jim Neusom
Founder, BDPA Nevada Chapter
Owner, City Lights Software

Greetings Family,

It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again...smile

I receive hundreds of emails daily, and believe me when I say...I read them all! I may not always reply, but truly I love hearing from my friends and supporters.

Jessye Bemley, a student at North Carolina A&T State University, sent me an email that I thought many of you working in the community, and trying to build grass-roots networks might appreciate.

Jessye asked...How can Web 2.0 technologies be used for mentoring?

First for discussion sake, let's define Web 2.0. For those that are not up on the latest tech jargon, Web 2.0 is essentially the combination of Rich Media applications across mutable web platforms.

Let me explain, social networks such as MySpace or FaceBook are not new. What's new, is how simply they integrate Rich Media such as pictures, videos, music, and widgets (think slide shows) into an online presentation based primarily on social interaction.

The end result of any individual profile, is to enhance personal creativity, information sharing, and, most notably, collaboration among users/friends. Mentally compare a personal website of the 90's with even the most basic social networking profile today....and you have Web 2.0.

Secondly, a Mentor is defined by Webster's dictionary as a trusted counselor or guide. Mentors provide their expertise to less experienced individuals in order to help them advance their careers, enhance their education, and build their networks.

Now the most overused term in social networking (Web 20) is "Friend". When you find a friend that is willing to help you with your goals (be they business, education or whatever), you have found a "Mentor".

So functionally speaking How can Web 2.0 technologies be used for mentoring? Let's take the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) youth programs hosted by BDPA as an example.

The BDPA is one of the nation's largest and oldest Black professional tech organizations. With tens of thousands of members, in chapters located in every urban center, they maintain a major online presence. So how does the BDPA use Web 2.0 technology?

1. Contacts/Introductions
   
   The BDPA provides mutable sites where students and potential mentors can meet and connect. For example run a search in Yahoogroups, Facebook, LinkedIn or any other site and you will find the BDPA. Within these sites, students can search out others with similar interest and objectives, who might be willing to help them with their STEM project.
   



2. Personal Interaction
   
   At every step of the STEM program, the BDPA provides on and off line volunteers to guide students through the process. These students are able to speak directly to these volunteers and team members (think Friend) utilizing Web 2.0 tools such as chats, forums, IM's, and yes even land line phones.
   
   They can use Web 2.0 tools like, bulletins and graphics to keep their team updated and motivated. Social networking sites create a primary location for team information to be shared and commented on.
   



3. Resources
   
   Mentors and STEM alumni have a wealth of knowledge and experience. Utilizing bulletins boards, forums, and Blogs, members have access to links, white papers, templates, and info specifically targeted to their STEM project.
   
   This info never goes away. You can look back through years of discussions and advice on STEM subjects given by experts in their field. More in likely, your questions has been asked before...and someone posted a answer.
   



4. Promotion and team building
   
   Mentorship, like Web 2.0 is not a linier or static concept. Mentorship is a personal, every changing life experience. As such, there will be many off line contacts and events that can be promoted and celebrated within the social networking site.
   
   Success breads success. Through videos, and webcasts STEM members can highlight their accomplishments and tell the world their story. Many curious visitors will read their profile and be motivated to join or help.
   



5. Mentorship
   
   Now even though in this discussion I use the term "Friend" lightly, never forget that being a Mentor is serious business. It is not a relationship to be entered into by just clicking a mouse.
   
   Being a mentor is not for the faint of heart. The responsibility requires knowledge, solid communication skills, and a great deal of patience. At the same time, being a mentor can be extremely rewarding, as there is a great deal of satisfaction in watching your former charges grow.
   
   Before choosing a Mentor, do your homework. Make sure they are not just text on a screen. You can normally determine this by watching their interactions with others, reading their posts and opinions, and using common sense. Mentorship is ideally a long term and personal relationship.

Remember, We Must Share The Knowledge (Network)... To Share The Dollars!!!

Sincerely,
Jim Neusom

Can Mentoring Programs Really Grow Minority Businesses?

Entrepreneurs are one of the five stakeholder groups targeted by BDPA. I have operated fully as an entrepreneur since July 5, 2002, so I'm grateful to BDPA for its focus on entrepreneurs.

The Institute for Entrepreneurial Thinking is the leading authority on issues related to minority business development and supplier diversity. The Institute's mission is to help its clients improve the outcomes of their investments in these areas. Dr. Mel Gravely owns The Institute and uses it to provide an objective, balanced and practical resource committed to providing leading edge insight about the evolving opportunities and challenges related to race and business.

I encourage all BETF-Blog Reader to check out the featured article in the November 2007 issue of The Entrepreneurial Thinker entitled, 'Can Mentoring Programs Really Grow Minority Businesses?'.

BETF-Blog Reader, do you know the other four BDPA stakeholder groups?