BDPA Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

BDPA has 6 executives leading key functions including technology strategy, market engagement, and chapter leadership.

Driven by a commitment to fostering diversity, BDPA empowers African Americans and minorities in IT and STEM fields, advancing their careers and contributing to technological innovation.

Leadership Roles at BDPA

  • President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago) - Pamela Sexton
  • President (Richmond) - Jamar Arvin
  • President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City) - William Wells
  • RI President - Jeanette James
  • Chief Information Officer - Wendell Layne
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Derris Boomer
  • Pamela Sexton - President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago)

    Pamela Sexton, the President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago) at BDPA, leads the strategic direction and operational execution for the Chicago chapter. This role involves fostering community engagement and driving local initiatives that align with BDPA's national mission. Overseeing chapter activities, Pamela Sexton ensures members in the Chicago region receive robust support for career development in IT and STEM. The President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago) cultivates relationships with local businesses and educational institutions to expand opportunities for chapter members. By managing chapter resources and volunteer efforts, this leader enhances the chapter's impact on upward mobility for minorities. Pamela Sexton's dedication strengthens BDPA's presence in key metropolitan areas, directly contributing to the organization's broader goals.

    Jamar Arvin - President (Richmond)

    Jamar Arvin, the President (Richmond) at BDPA, directs the strategic vision and operational management for the Richmond chapter. This leadership position focuses on advancing BDPA's objectives within the Richmond community, particularly for African Americans and minorities in technology fields. Overseeing all chapter functions, Jamar Arvin ensures the delivery of impactful programs and services that support member growth and professional development. The President (Richmond) cultivates local partnerships and collaborations to create enhanced career pathways and networking opportunities. By mobilizing chapter resources and volunteers, this executive drives initiatives that promote STEM education and IT career advancement. Jamar Arvin's commitment strengthens BDPA's regional footprint and its mission to empower tech professionals.

    William Wells - President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City)

    William Wells, the President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City) at BDPA, leads the chapter's strategic initiatives and day-to-day operations. This executive champions BDPA's mission to support minorities in IT and STEM fields within the Kansas City metropolitan area. Overseeing chapter programming, William Wells ensures members benefit from targeted career development resources and networking events. The President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City) fosters local partnerships with industry leaders and educational institutions to create tangible opportunities for chapter members. By managing chapter resources and driving volunteer engagement, this leader enhances the chapter's ability to facilitate upward mobility. William Wells's focused leadership strengthens BDPA's regional impact and its commitment to diversity in technology.

    Jeanette James - RI President

    Jeanette James, the RI President at BDPA, guides the strategic direction and operational oversight for the RI chapter. This critical role focuses on advancing BDPA's core mission of empowering African Americans and minorities within the Information Technology and STEM sectors in the region. Overseeing all chapter activities, Jeanette James ensures the effective implementation of programs designed to foster career growth and professional development. The RI President cultivates essential local partnerships with businesses and academic institutions, expanding opportunities for chapter members. By managing chapter resources and coordinating volunteer efforts, this executive drives initiatives that promote technological advancement and diversity. Jeanette James's leadership significantly contributes to BDPA's broader objective of enabling upward mobility in tech fields.

    Wendell Layne - Chief Information Officer

    Wendell Layne, the Chief Information Officer at BDPA, directs the organization's technology strategy and information systems. This leadership role involves architecting scalable IT infrastructure to support BDPA's mission of enabling upward mobility for minorities in STEM fields. Overseeing all technology operations, Wendell Layne ensures the secure and efficient management of data and digital resources. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to evaluating and implementing new technologies that enhance member services and operational effectiveness. This executive drives the digital transformation initiatives critical for BDPA's continued growth and impact across North America. By optimizing technological capabilities, the Chief Information Officer strengthens BDPA's position as a leader in IT and STEM advocacy.

    Derris Boomer - Chief Marketing Officer

    Derris Boomer, the Chief Marketing Officer at BDPA, spearheads all market engagement and brand strategy initiatives. This executive develops and executes comprehensive marketing plans to amplify BDPA's reach and impact within the IT and STEM sectors. Overseeing communications and public relations, Derris Boomer ensures consistent messaging that highlights BDPA's commitment to empowering African Americans and minorities. The Chief Marketing Officer drives campaigns designed to attract new members, foster partnerships, and promote the organization's vital role in career advancement. By analyzing market trends and member needs, this leader shapes strategies that resonate with target audiences across the United States. Derris Boomer's leadership ensures BDPA's value proposition is clearly communicated, supporting the organization's growth and influence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BDPA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BDPA?
    BDPA is led by Pamela Sexton (President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago)), along with executives such as Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)) and William Wells (President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City)).
    Who is part of BDPA’s executive team?
    The executive team of BDPA includes leaders such as Pamela Sexton (President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago)), Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)), William Wells (President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BDPA have?
    BDPA has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BDPA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BDPA includes roles such as President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago), President (Richmond), President, Bdpa Chapter (Kansas City), RI President, Chief Information Officer.