BDPA Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to fostering diversity, BDPA empowers African Americans and minorities in IT and STEM fields, advancing their careers through networking, education, and advocacy.

Leadership Roles at BDPA

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

    Jeanette James, the RI President at BDPA, leads the organization's strategic direction and operational oversight. James champions BDPA's core mission of fostering the advancement of African Americans and minorities within the Information Technology and STEM sectors. This executive position involves guiding chapter development and ensuring alignment with national organizational objectives. By fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and community partners, Jeanette James enhances BDPA's influence and reach. The RI President's responsibilities include overseeing key initiatives that promote education, professional development, and networking opportunities for members across various regions. James's leadership ensures BDPA continues its legacy of empowering individuals and driving diversity in the technology landscape.

    Jamar Arvin - President (Richmond)

    Jamar Arvin, the President (Richmond) at BDPA, directs local chapter operations and member engagement within the Richmond region. Arvin spearheads initiatives designed to support the career growth of African Americans and minorities in IT and STEM fields throughout the area. This leadership role involves cultivating strategic partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions to expand opportunities for BDPA members. By organizing networking events, workshops, and mentorship programs, Jamar Arvin actively contributes to the upward mobility of individuals in the technology sector. The President (Richmond) ensures the chapter's activities directly align with BDPA's national mission, fostering a strong community presence and driving impactful outcomes for members in the Richmond area.

    Taylor Sharperson - President

    Taylor Sharperson, the President at BDPA, guides the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Sharperson is dedicated to advancing the presence and success of African Americans and minorities in Information Technology and STEM fields. This executive capacity involves fostering a collaborative environment among leadership and chapter representatives to achieve organizational milestones. By championing key programs and initiatives, Taylor Sharperson ensures BDPA continues to provide essential resources for professional development and networking. The President's focus includes strengthening the organization's impact and expanding its reach to serve a growing community of aspiring and established tech professionals. Sharperson's leadership drives BDPA's commitment to diversity and inclusion within the technology industry.

    Pamela Sexton - President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago)

    Pamela Sexton, the President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago) at BDPA, leads the organization's efforts within the Chicago metropolitan area. Sexton focuses on empowering African Americans and minorities pursuing careers in IT and STEM through targeted local programming. This leadership position involves developing and executing chapter-specific strategies that enhance member engagement and professional development. By organizing networking events, educational workshops, and mentorship opportunities, Pamela Sexton directly supports the career advancement of individuals in the Chicago tech community. The President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago) ensures chapter activities align with BDPA's national mission, fostering a vibrant local network and contributing to the broader goal of increasing diversity in technology.

    Wendell Layne - Chief Information Officer

    Wendell Layne, the Chief Information Officer at BDPA, directs the organization's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing all IT operations, Layne ensures the seamless integration of technology solutions that support BDPA's mission of advancing minorities in STEM fields. This leadership role involves architecting scalable systems that enhance member engagement and operational efficiency across the organization. By optimizing data management and cybersecurity protocols, Wendell Layne safeguards sensitive information and promotes a robust digital environment. The Chief Information Officer's focus extends to evaluating emerging technologies that can further BDPA's educational and career development programs, ensuring the organization remains at the forefront of technological advancement and accessibility for its members.

    Derris Boomer - Chief Marketing Officer

    Derris Boomer, the Chief Marketing Officer at BDPA, drives the organization's brand visibility and outreach initiatives. Overseeing all marketing and communications efforts, Boomer crafts strategies to amplify BDPA's impact and attract new members and partners. This critical role involves developing compelling narratives that highlight BDPA's success in enabling upward mobility for African Americans and minorities in IT and STEM. By managing digital marketing campaigns, public relations, and content creation, Derris Boomer ensures consistent messaging across all platforms. The Chief Marketing Officer collaborates closely with other leadership to align marketing objectives with organizational goals, fostering growth and expanding the reach of BDPA's vital programs. Boomer's strategic vision enhances BDPA's market position and reinforces its commitment to diversity in technology.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BDPA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BDPA?
    BDPA is led by Jeanette James (RI President), along with executives such as Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)) and Taylor Sharperson (President).
    Who is part of BDPA’s executive team?
    The executive team of BDPA includes leaders such as Jeanette James (RI President), Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)), Taylor Sharperson (President) 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 RI President, President (Richmond), President, President, Bdpa Chapter (Chicago), Chief Information Officer.