BDPA Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

BDPA has 4 executives leading key functions including marketing, information technology, and organizational leadership.

Dedicated to advancing minority representation in technology, BDPA fosters professional growth and upward mobility for African Americans within the IT and STEM sectors through comprehensive networking, mentorship, and industry-focused educational initiatives.

Leadership Roles at BDPA

  • President - Taylor Sharperson
  • President (Richmond) - Jamar Arvin
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Derris Boomer
  • Chief Information Officer - Wendell Layne
  • Taylor Sharperson - President

    Taylor Sharperson, the President at BDPA, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the entire organization. By architecting long-term growth initiatives, the President ensures the continued advancement of African Americans and other minorities within the IT and STEM sectors. Sharperson manages relationships with key stakeholders and corporate partners to secure resources for professional development programs. Through the oversight of national operations, the President maintains alignment with the founding mission established in 1975. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team toward achieving measurable outcomes in career mobility and industry representation. By fostering a culture of excellence, Taylor Sharperson directly impacts the success of members navigating the technology landscape. Ultimately, the President drives the strategic direction required to sustain the organization's influence and commitment to diversity in the global technology workforce.

    Jamar Arvin - President (Richmond)

    Jamar Arvin, the President (Richmond) at BDPA, directs regional operations and local initiatives to support the organization's mission within the mid-Atlantic market. By architecting community-based programs, the President (Richmond) facilitates local networking and mentorship opportunities for minority professionals in the IT sector. Arvin manages the execution of regional events that promote STEM education and career development. Through the coordination of local chapter activities, the President (Richmond) ensures that national objectives translate into tangible benefits for the local membership. This leadership role involves engaging with regional corporate partners to create pathways for professional advancement. By optimizing local resource allocation, Jamar Arvin directly impacts the effectiveness of the organization's outreach efforts. Ultimately, the President (Richmond) drives regional growth and strengthens the local presence of the organization, ensuring that members receive consistent support and access to industry-leading professional development.

    Derris Boomer - Chief Marketing Officer

    Derris Boomer, the Chief Marketing Officer at BDPA, directs all brand communication and outreach strategies to expand the organization's national footprint. By architecting digital engagement campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer increases visibility for minority professionals seeking career advancement in IT and STEM fields. Boomer manages the public perception of the organization, ensuring alignment with the core mission of fostering upward mobility. Through strategic partnerships and targeted media initiatives, the Chief Marketing Officer drives membership growth across diverse regional chapters. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to better position the organization as a premier resource for technology talent. By optimizing communication channels, Derris Boomer directly impacts the ability of the organization to connect with corporate sponsors and individual members. Ultimately, the Chief Marketing Officer secures the long-term relevance of the brand within the competitive technology landscape.

    Wendell Layne - Chief Information Officer

    Wendell Layne, the Chief Information Officer at BDPA, oversees the technological infrastructure supporting the organization's mission to empower minority IT professionals. By architecting scalable data systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity for members across the United States. Layne manages the digital platforms that facilitate mentorship programs and educational resource distribution. Through the implementation of robust cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive member data while maintaining operational efficiency. This leadership role involves collaborating with other executives to integrate new software solutions that enhance the overall user experience for the community. By streamlining internal processes, Wendell Layne directly impacts the organization's capacity to deliver high-quality STEM training. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer drives the digital transformation necessary to support the evolving needs of the membership base in a rapidly changing technological environment.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BDPA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BDPA?
    BDPA is led by Taylor Sharperson (President), along with executives such as Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)) and Derris Boomer (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of BDPA’s executive team?
    The executive team of BDPA includes leaders such as Taylor Sharperson (President), Jamar Arvin (President (Richmond)), Derris Boomer (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BDPA have?
    BDPA has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BDPA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BDPA includes roles such as President, President (Richmond), Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Information Officer.