2023 Blacks in Government Souvenir Journal

“Today we celebrate our differences for it is our diversity that makes this country great.”

Honorable Gerald R. Reed, Past BIG National President 2006 BIG Pentagon Chapter Black History Month

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GREETINGS

If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”

- Shirley Chisholm

A Message from our National President

A Message from our National President

Honorable Shirley A. Jones, Esq.

Honorable Shirley A. Jones, Esq.

Greetings 2023 National Training Institute Attendees,

Greetings,

Welcome to our 43rd Annual National Training Institute (NTI)!

On behalf of the national organization of Blacks In Government (BIG), it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to our 44th Annual National Training Institute (NTI). Of course, the NTI is an important part of BIG’s rich history of advocating for a level playing field so that all government employees have an equal opportunity to succeed and the tools that they need to soar. Consistent with that rich history, this year’s Theme is “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development.” Indeed, the training workshops are designed to help you exceed the standards that you have set for yourself regardless of where you may currently find yourself in your career. With a focus on leadership and career development topics, including communication skills, time management, health awareness and wellness, and much more, there is simply something for everyone.

It is indeed my pleasure to greet you as the 15th National President of Blacks In Government (BIG), ushering our NTI back into an in-person format Last year you helped us make history with our first ever virtual NTI with over 700 government employees and 180 Future Leaders of America’s Government (FLAG) students in attendance Of course, we are still heeding the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as we come back together for a dynamic in person event that brings together government Senior Executive Service (SES) members, industry leaders, and subject matter experts to share a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to help you navigate your career development path. And, we have the entire Huntington Convention Center to do it! There will be ample classroom space and a wide variety of sessions to choose from

We have also worked diligently to provide opportunities throughout the week to showcase our special emphasis on legislative matters, state and local issues, veterans’ bene fi ts, and programs for our members 40 and under through our NOW Generation. Of course, our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Institute is also a longstanding NTI staple. So, in addition to the standard workshops, I do hope you will also take advantage of these opportunities as well. I should also note that you will see students from our Future Leaders in America’s Government (FLAG) program as well as from our youth oratorical and STEM competitions. Please take a moment to greet them and offer any career advice that you wish you could give to your younger self. Lastly, I hope you will also spend some time in our grand Exhibit Hall and Career Fair. Corporate Sponsors, government agencies, and vendors from all across the country await you. So, please check them out for job opportunities, additional training opportunities, and some very unique items.

Let me also take this opportunity to applaud each of you for your commitment to public service. They sent us home in March of 2020, but the government never lost a step In fact, you stepped it up! As public servants, we have always risen to the challenge, but we moved forward our agency missions despite facing concerns with health care, childcare, and technology that has been stretched thin as it accommodated a new level of telework and our home classrooms. So, I applaud your dedication as you served the American people when the American people needed government the most Nobody, and I mean nobody, complained about “big government” during the pandemic. In fact, many had a newfound respect for all that we do, and I applaud you for that.

I am known to keep my promises and I am promising you that this NTI won’t disappoint. If it does, I want to personally hear about it. Enjoy!

Very Respectfully,

I close by reminding you that throughout the pandemic, with all its many challenges, our BIG organization continued to move forward our mission of advocacy on all fronts! We have continued to highlight where the government falls short in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and even enhanced our partnerships with agency leaders to address the gaps Importantly, we continued to deliver on our longstanding promise to provide educational opportunities that will help you secure the tools you need to succeed. We do this for you! From virtual in 2021 to the great city of Cleveland, OH in 2022, we deliver to you a premier government training event like none other.

Onwards and Upwards,

Honorable Shirley A. Jones, Esq. National President Blacks In Government, Inc.

Honorable Shirley A. Jones, Esq. National President

Greetings From National Board Board of Directors’ Chair

Greetings BIG Family and Friends,

As the 2023 Chair of the National Board of Directors (NBoD), it is with great enthusiasm that I welcome each of you to the 44th National Training Institute (NTI)

This year’s theme “Accept the Cha!enge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development” embodies the key elements required for your professional development and career advancement.

The NTI Planning Committee has worked tirelessly in creating an agenda filled with a superb blend of training, dynamic speakers, programs, and activities, to increase your knowledge, skills, and abilities to address today’s issues.

On behalf of the NBoD, I encourage each of you to take full advantage of the professional development and networking opportunities available to you this week to become a change agent in the workplace.

We also extend a very special BIG thanks to our corporate sponsors, exhibitors, guest speakers, presenters, planning committee members, and to all conference attendees for assisting in making this a great training conference.

Congratulations to Region XI for hosting the 44th NTI.

And as always, Thank You for Thinking BIG!

Very Respectfully,

Honorable Katherine L. Cage Chair, National Board of Directors Blacks In Government, Inc.

Greetings From National Training Chair

Greetings,

I am pleased and honored to welcome you to Black In Government (BIG 44th Annual National Training Institute (NTI). We are excited that you have chosen to join us this year at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland. This year’s theme is: “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard through Professional Development”, which will cause you to focus on building professional connections, finding new ways to achieve in your career, reevaluating your skillsets, and pushing beyond your comfort zones. We look to enhance leadership skills and motivate attendees at all levels to succeed in today’s challenging work environments.

This year’s training will equip attendees with knowledge and flexibility to succeed. BIG is excited about offering over 100 workshops this week.

The National Training Institute has information and opportunities to facilitate the development of everyone’s workplace skills. We hope that attendees will leave this year’s NTI cultivated and rewarded with a wealth of knowledge to assist in accomplishing their career goals.

A special thanks to the corporate sponsors, presenters, speakers, and exhibitors for their contributions and commitments to this year’s National Training Institute.

Respectfully,

Paula E. Davis

Honorable Paula E. Davis Chair, National Training Institute Blacks In Government, Inc.

Greetings From The Host City Coordinator

Greetings National Training Institute Attendees!

On behalf of the Region XI Council of Blacks In Government, welcome to the 44th Annual Blacks In Government National Training Institute (NTI year's theme is "Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development." It is an honor to serve again as your 2023 Host City Coordinator. I am humbled to welcome you to the D.M.V. (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia ) and my hometown of "Gorgeous Prince Georges" County and the National Harbor.

This year's theme is personal to me. In 2014 I joined BIG, and one could say that I "accepted the challenge." I could have never imagined the trajectory my life or career would take as someone new to government and BIG. I wanted to make a difference in my BIG Chapter and my agency, so I stepped up and was appointed to fill a vacant leadership position within the Chapter. Later that year, I attended my first BIG NTI, and it's hard to believe this year will be the 9th that I have attended as a BIG member!

Each year, I used the knowledge and skills obtained at the various workshops to ascend the ranks in my career and BIG. I soon graduated from the illustrious Darlene H. Young Leadership Academy (DYLA) and leading Region XI's Emerging Leaders adhoc committee shortly thereafter. Later, I served on the National Executive Committee (NEC) as the National NOW Generation Coordinator, Region XI's Programs and Education Chair, and Council President. Nearly ten years into my BIG membership, and since accepting the challenge, there is no doubt that I have far exceeded the standard thanks to my growth and professional development in BIG and from the NTI.

Please take advantage of your time this week by signing up and attending the workshops, Special Emphasis Programs (SEPs), and networking events that will assist you in your professional development and building your network. The NTI is truly a one-of-a-kind training experience. So, if you are not a BIG member, I hope you join BIG this week and, like me in 2014, accept the challenge, get involved with your local chapter and Region, and exceed the standard.

Looking forward to seeing you around the classrooms and halls of the Gaylord and on the Whova app!

Best,

Stephan P. Ma hews

2023 Host City Coordinator Region XI Council President

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THE U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

A PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT®

44th ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE

WHO WE ARE

EPA's mission is to protect human health and the environment. We work to ensure people and communities have clean air, land, and water Our national efforts reduce environmental risks that are based on the best available scientific information. Environmental stewardship is integral to U.S. policies concerning natural resources, human health, energy, transportation, agriculture, industry, environmental justice, climate change,and international trade, and these factors are similarily considered in establishing environmental policy.

WHAT WE DO

AGENCY NTI & FORUM PLANNING COMMITTEE:

Marieka Boyd

Donnell Carter

Dr Ethel Crisp

Linda Gray

LaShan Haynes

Cleophas Jackson

Kayla King

Angela Latigue

Arnold Layne

James McDonald

Denise McRae

Michael Reese

Nigel Simon

Tackling Climate Change, Protecting the Health and Safety

EPA CO-SPONSORS:

EPA Black Employment Program

Office of the Administrator

Office of Land and Emergency Management

Office of Mission Support

Office of Water

Office of International and Tribal Affairs

Office of Air and Radiation

Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention

Office of Research and Development

Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance

Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights

Advancing Environmental Justice and Civil Rights

Enforcing Environmental Laws and Ensuring Compliance

Ensuring Safety of Chemicals for People in the Environment

of Revitalized Communities

Think BIG with Management Concepts

Management Concepts is ready to help BIG members “accept the challenge and exceed the standard through professional development.” Connect with us at NTI 2023 and beyond with these valuable resources.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, And Accessibility Hub

Enhance your agency or organization’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives with our specialized tools and resources.

ManagementConcepts.com/DEIA

Leaders at Every Level

Our comprehensive suite of leadership offerings can take candidates from refining basic skills to excelling in an SES role.

ManagementConcepts.com/Leadership

Resource Library

Access webinars, infographics, eBooks, and additional assets.

ManagementConcepts.com/Resources

NEW 2023-2024 Student Resource Guide

Whether you are looking for career advancement, to maintain a certification, or simply for a skills refresher, Management Concepts can help. Download our FREE Student Resource Guide for complete information.

ManagementConcepts.com/ResourceGuide

Management Concepts is proud to be a national partner of Blacks in Government. Stay up to date with all partnership activities and events.

ABOUT BIG

“Don’t let anyone convince you that we live in a colorblind society, not even the U.S. Supreme Court. That is simply not supported by the weight of the evidence.

2021- present

- Honorable Shirley A. Jones, Esq., BIG National President,

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT® HISTORY

Blacks In Government® (BIG) was established in 1975 and incorporated in 1976 by a small group of African Americans at the Public Health Services which is a part of the Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) in the Parklawn building in Rockville, Maryland. The organization was viewed as essential to the Black civil service employee, based on a wide assortment of racially motivated problems faced by the HEW Black employees in Rockville. Initially, it was thought that the umbrella organization would address only the problems at the Federal level. However, it was soon determined that State, County, and Municipal Black employees were faced with the same general type of employment problems.

Nonetheless, Blacks In Government was organized in 1975 and incorporated as a non- profit organization under the District of Columbia jurisdiction in 1976. BIG has been a national response to the need for African Americans in public service to organize around issues of mutual concern and use their collective strength to confront workplace and community issues. BIG's goals are to promote EQUITY in all aspects of American life, EXCELLENCE in public service, and OPPORTUNITY for all Americans.

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT® GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

BIG FUNCTIONS AS an employee support group, as an advocacy group, and a resource group for Black civil servants:

1. To be an advocate of equal opportunity for Blacks in government.

2. To eliminate practices of racism and racial discrimination against Blacks in government.

3. To promote professionalism among Blacks in government.

4. To develop and promote programs which will enhance ethnic pride and educational opportunities for Blacks in government.

5. To establish a mechanism for gathering and disseminating information for Blacks in government.

6. To provide a nonpartisan platform on major issues of local, regional, and national significance that affect Blacks in government.

BIG Covenant

BIG COVENANT

I regard myself and you as being created in the image of GOD

I see your beauty I sense your power

I celebrate your potential

I support your prerogative to sing your song

I share your pursuit of the highest quality of life

I will tell you the truth, And I will have your trust

I will listen to you with my heart

And I shall speak to you with my smile

I shall care enough to confront you, And to comfort you

In you I see GOD

And in GOD I see you

You're my Friend And I Love You

Now, give the person you are sharing this with a “BIG” hug!!

Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Join BIG

1. BIG Works for You: BIG is the only organization dedicated to the interests of the African American public servant. Other organizations may touch upon the problems that impact you but BIG is made up of people who share your interests, your concerns, and your problems.

2. BIG is an Advocate: BIG speaks out on issues affecting the government workplace. BIG testified before the Congress on legislations reforming the EEO process, racial discrimination in government, and affirmative employment. BIG also spoke out on the disparate rate of discharge of African Americans from the federal service, the national performance review, and downsizing. BIG recently had a public hearing on the assault against affirmative action.

3. BIG is an employee support group: If you have a problem on the job, your BIG chapter can be an excellent resource for help and counsel. Many BIG members have dealt with similar problems and can suggest strategies for combating them. BIG also has a list of attorneys experienced in handling the type of problems BIG members may encounter.

4. BIG is a professional development organization: Every year BIG sponsors a national training conference which brings together national leaders and experts from around the country to address Black government workers. The conference is a unique training experience for government workers, providing you an exposure to issues often overlooked in the day-to-day workplace.

5. BIG is a community resource: Your BIG chapter can be a strong force in the community helping to fight such community problems as drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, AIDS, illiteracy, and voter registration. The skills you develop on the job can be invaluable in promoting community activities through your BIG chapter.

6. BIG is networking: By becoming a member of BIG, you are becoming a part of an organization that includes workers from all levels of government and all areas of the public workforce. The national training conference provides opportunity to meet experts from around the country, employers from other agencies, and pick up information and resources that can help you professionally and in your personal growth.

7. BIG is a chance to make a difference: We can accomplish together what you cannot do alone. With BIG you can work toward your goals with people who have similar goals. You can do something about the institutional and socioeconomic problems you face in the workplace and in the community. You can use your skills and talents in a setting in which they are needed.

8. BIG keeps you informed: BIG keeps you up to date with the latest developments affecting the African American government employee. From the Washington, D. C. headquarters, we publish the monthly BIG Bulletin, and a quarterly magazine, The BIG Reporter. Regions and chapters also publish newsletters that focus on local issues.

9. BIG recognizes your achievements: Each year BIG gives out awards to those who have made a major contribution to the goals and objectives of the organization. Regional councils and local chapters also recognize such achievements. These awards set role models for excellence in government service.

10. BIG is an opportunity: BIG is the chance you have been waiting for to step up and take your place in the loop. To be a part of the fast-moving events that affect your world as a government employee, you need an organization like BIG that can speak for you and through which you can voice your views. If you are concerned about equity, excellence, and opportunity in government, you should consider BIG.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Science, Service and Stewardship

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Science, Service and Stewardship

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is an agency that enriches life through science. Our reach goes from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep citizens informed of the changing environment around them. From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services support economic third of America’s gross domestic product. NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cutting instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it. Join the NOAA team! For more information contact NOAA’s Black Employment Program Manager Salim C. Abddeen at salim.abddeen@noaa.gov or visit:

www.noaa.gov

www.facebook.com

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is an agency that enriches life through science. Our reach goes from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep citizens informed of the changing environment around them. From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product.

NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cutting-edge research and high-tech instrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it. Join the NOAA team! For more information contact NOAA’s Black Employment Program Manager Salim C. Abddeen at salim.abddeen@noaa.gov or visit:

Web: http://www.noaa.gov

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/noaa

Other social media channels:

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Other social media channels: connected

UNIVERSITY WOMEN NEW YORK BRANCH

“Visionary Women Serving In Unity & Love

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN

“IN

OF BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT”

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is an agency that enriches life through science. Our reach goes from the surface of the sun to the depths of the ocean floor as we work to keep citizens informed of the changing environment around them. From daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and climate monitoring to fisheries management, coastal restoration and supporting marine commerce, NOAA’s products and services support economic vitality and affect more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product.

NEW YORK BRANCH

THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN NEW YORK BRANCH

GIGS TAYLOR STEPHENSON, PRESIDENT

“Visionary Women Serving In Unity & Love

SHEILA MURRAY, ADVOCATE

“Visionary Women Serving In Unity & Love

SUPPORT OF BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT”

“IN SUPPORT OF BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT”

GIGS TAYLOR STEPHENSON, PRESIDENT

SHEILA MURRAY, ADVOCATE

GIGS TAYLOR STEPHENSON, PRESIDENT SHEILA MURRAY, ADVOCATE

NOAA’s dedicated scientists use cuttinginstrumentation to provide citizens, planners, emergency managers and other decision makers with reliable information they need when they need it. Join the NOAA team! For more information contact NOAA’s Black Employment Program Manager Salim C. Abddeen at salim.abddeen@noaa.gov or visit: Web: http://www.noaa.gov

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/noaa)

Twitter: https://twitter.com/noaa

SUPPORT

LEADERSHIP

“If there is no progress, there is no struggle.”

- Frederick Douglass

NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OFFICERS

HONORABLE SHIRLEY A. JONES, ESQ. National President

DR. LYNWOOD TOWNSEND National Executive Vice President

HONORABLE DEENA SHEPPARD National First

MR. DANNY WADE National Second Vice President

MS. MAZELLA THOMAS National Third Vice President

DR. WILDA PARKER-COLLINS National Secretary

MR. ANTHONY W. LEE J. D. National Corresponding Secretary

HONORABLE B. FAYE STEWART National Treasurer

MR. DUANE HILL National Assistant Treasurer

National First Vice President Ms. Deena Sheppard

National Second Vice President Mr. Danny Wade

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGION I

REGION II

REGION III

Honorable Gary L. Blackmon Denver Center Complex Chapter Chairperson Los Angeles/Long Beach Area Chapter

Ms. Atricia Irons Greater Boston Chapter

Ms. Jacqulyn D. Allen Greater Boston Chapter

Ms. Joanne Palmer NY Elite Chapter

Ms. Esther Seabrook Lower Manhattan Chapter

New Cumberland Susquehanna Chapter

Ms. Johnita Pitts Susquehanna Chapter

Greater Boston Chapter

Ms. Jacqulyn D. Allen Greater Boston Chapter

Region II

Ms. Joanne Palmer NY Elite Chapter

Ms. Gwendolyn Townsend JFK Chapter

Region II

Ms. Joanne Palmer NY Elite Chapter

Ms. Gwendolyn Townsend JFK

Ms. Gwendolyn Townsend JFK Chapter

Mr. Michael Upshaw North East Liberty Chapter

Honorable Ms. Katherine Cage Houston Area Chapter Chair

Ms. Atricia L. Irons Greater Boston Chapter

Ms. Jacqulyn D. Allen Greater Boston Chapter

Mr. Anthony Thomas Greater Boston Chapter

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGION IV

REGION V

REGION VI

REGION VII

East-Central Savannah River Chapter

Mr. James C. Causell, Sr. CDC.ATSDR Chapter

Ms. Patricia Thompson Chicago Midwest Chapter Houston Area Chapter

Ms. Gwenda J. Lowe Dallas Metroplex Chapter

Ms. Robin McDaniel-Beck Greater Kansas City Chapter

Ms. Christine Wilder St. Louis Metropolitan Chapter

Mr. James C. Clausell, Sr. CDC/ATSDR Chapter

East-Central Savannah River Chapter

Mr. James C. Clausell Sr. CDC/ATSDR Chapter Region VI

Mr. Frank Traylor Austin Chapter Mr. Frank Traylor Austin Chapter

Region VII

Ms. Robin McDaniel-Beck Greater Kansas City Chapter

Ms. Christine Wilder St. Louis Metropolitan Chapter

Ms. Peggy Wilson Central Florida Chapter

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS (continued)

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

REGION VIII

REGION IX

REGION X

REGION XI

Honorable Gary L. Blackmon Denver Center Complex Chapter

Mr. Michael Smith Denver Federal Center Chapter

Mr. Kenneth Pearson Ventura County Chapter

Ms. Erin Smalls Puget Sound Chapter

Ms. Patricia Ly Port of Seattle Chapter

HHS WDC College Park Complex

Ms. Glynis M. Hill EPA William D. Barber, Jr. Chapter

Region VIII

Ms. Nichelle Rogers Denver Federal Center Chapter

Mr. Michael Smith Denver Federal Center Chapter

Ms. Nichelle Rogers Denver Federal Center Chapter Region IX

Honorable Mrs. Toni Pearson Sacramento Metro Chapter

Dr. Edward Wilson Los Angeles/Long Beach Area Chapter

Honorable Mrs. Toni Pearson Sacramento Metro Chapter

2022 NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Honorable Ms. Katherine Cage Houston Area Chapter Vice Chair

Region X

Ms. Erin Small Puget Sound Chapter

Ms. Marie Bell

Ms. Marie Bell-Allen Port of Seattle Chapter

Region XI

Ms. Marion Allen HHS WDC College Park Complex Chapter

Ms. Marion Allen HHS WDC College Park Complex Chapter

Mr. Michael McCrimmon Washington Navy Yard Chapter

Mr. Michael McCrimmon Washington Navy Yard Chapter

Ms. Julie Hicks Mile High Chapter

Mr. Derrick Felton Mid-Peninsula Silicon Valley Chapter

NATIONAL

BOARD MEMBERS FROM THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

NATIONAL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPOINTED POSITIONS

SHELLY WARREN Board Parliamentarian

HONORABLE SHIRLEY A. JONES, ESQ. National President GAO-USACE Chapter

MS. WILDER PARKER-COLLINS National Secretary CDC/ATSDR Chapter

HONORABLE B. FAYE STEWART National Treasurer Houston Area Chapter

Dr. E. Montrez Nicholson Board Protocol

Honorable Ms. Paula E. Davis National Secretary IRS/NCFB Chapter Dr. E. Montrez Nicholson National Protocol (NBOD)

NATIONAL STANDING, APPOINTED AND SPECIAL COMMITTEE

CHAIRPERSONS

HONORABLE BEVERLY JOHNSON Legislative Review

MR. JERRY JACKSON Membership

MS. ADITYA MCDUFFY, ESQ. Legal Review

HONORABLE PAULA DAVIS NTI Training Chair

HONORABLE ALICE MERCER AE/EEO

DR. BEVERLY LYN-COOK

Health and Wellness

MR. JIBRI MAYO Communications/Public Relations Deputy Chair

MS. ADRIANNE CALLAHAN Program and Planning Chair

MS. MELINDA DELOATCH-SPEIGHT NTI Deputy Training Chair

DR. WILDA PARKER-COLLINS Membership Impexium Liaison

HONORABLE MARY WATKINS

AE/EEO Deputy Chair

MS. LYNN SIMPSON Communications/Public Relations Chair

DR. PHADREA D. PONDS Evaluations

MS. GWENDA LOWE Health and Wellness Deputy Chair

MR. MICHAEL SMITH Finance

NATIONAL STANDING, APPOINTED AND SPECIAL COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

HONORABLE DAVID

National Delegates Assembly

HONORABLE MARY K.

National Delegates Assembly Deputy Chair

HONORABLE J.

HONORABLE

MS. LAUREN MERRITT TAYLOR Historian/Librarian

GROVES

MR. JOHNNY BARIDEAUX

Darlene H. Young Leadership Academy (DYLA) Coordinator

DAVID REEVES Parliamentarian

GREGG REEVES Presidential Advisor

MS. ALESIA SMITH Building New Leaders for the NOW Generation Chair

MS. KATHY BEST Future Business Leaders of America (FLAG) Coordinator

MR. MARCUS BROOKS Military Veterans Emphasis Program Coordinator

MS. FAYE WILKES Conference Registration

THOMAS

MR. WILLIAM SPEIGHT SR. Head of Security

MR. TIMOTHY LEWIS Head of Security Co-Chair

NATIONAL STANDING, APPOINTED AND SPECIAL COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

BIG NATIONAL OFFICE STAFF

MR. JAMES SOMERVILLE Telecommunications

MR. BOB WILSON Photography

MR. DAMIEN HILL Project BIG Vote

MR. DEREK CAMPBELL Office Manager

MS. LASHAN HAYNES Protocol Administrator

Project BIG Vote

Mr. Walter Jones

Protocol Administrator Ms. Lashan Haynes

MS. LAVOLYA “SUMMER” WILLIAMS National Corporate Sponsorship Chair

NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE PLANNING COMMITTEE

HONORABLE SHIRLEY A. JONES, ESQ. National President

MS. PAULA DAVIS National Training Chair

MS. MELINDA SPEIGHT National Training Deputy Chair Banquet/Catering Chair & Hotel Block Manager

HONORABLE ALICE MERCER EEO Institute Chair

Communications/ Public Relations & Souvenir Journal Chair

DR. LYNWOOD TOWNSEND Agency Forums Special Enhancement Programs

MS. NIKKI ASHE Exhibits Co-Chair

HONORABLE FARNESE J. HICKS Exhibits Co-Chair

HONORABLE MARY WATKINS EEO Institute Deputy Chair

Communications/ Public Relations & Souvenir Journal Deputy Chair

MR. STEPHEN MATTHEWS Host City Coordinator Region XI

MS. TRACY BRADFORD Banquet Catering Co-Chair

NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE PLANNING COMMITTEE

MS. NEAVALY TOURAY Guest Services Chair

DR. BEVERLY LYN-COOK Health and Wellness

MS. LASHAN HAYNES Plenary Chair

MR. FRANK Q. WILLIAMS Inventory Control Chair

MS. FAYE WILKES Registration Chair

MR. MICHAEL SMITH Finance and Budgeting

HONORABLE TERRANCE WILLIAMS Logistics and Automation Chair

MR. DAVID HINES Logistics and Automation Co-Chair

MR. WILLIAM SPEIGHT SR. BIG Ambassador (Security)

MR. TIMOTHY LEWIS BIG Ambassador (Security) Co-Chair

MS. GENEVA BUTLER Special Events Chair

MS. PHADREA D. PONDS Evaluations

NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE PLANNING COMMITTEE

MR. JAMES SOMERVILLE

Telecommunications Photography

MS. ADRIANNE CALLAHAN Workshops Chair

HONORABLE B. FAYE STEWART National Treasurer

HONORABLE DAVID GROVES National Delegates Assembly Chair

BLACK IN GOVERNMENT, INC. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE HALL OF FAME AWARD INDUCTEES

2022 2021

The Honorable Mr. Johnny R. Barideaux

The Honorable Ms. Kathy Best

The Honorable Dr. Matthew Fogg

The Honorable Ms. Deena Sheppard

The Honorable Mr. Shelley Warren

The Honorable Paula E. Davis

The Honorable Alice Mercer

The Honorable Johnita Pitts

2020 2019

The Honorable Ms. Katherine L. Cage

The Honorable Ms. Regina D. Kennedy

The Honorable Mr. Calvin Stevens

The Honorable Ms. Mary J. Watkins

The Honorable Mr. Harold E. Atkins

The Honorable Dr. Ethel L. Crisp

2018 2017

The Honorable Ms. Cassandra Jones *

The Honorable Ms. Shirley A. Jones, Esq

The Honorable Mr. Philip B. Atwell

The Honorable Dr. Hezekiah Braxton III, Ed. D

The Honorable Ms. Norma J. Samuel

2016 2015

The Honorable Hazel Calhoun Hays *

The Honorable Farnese J. Hicks

The Honorable Trekeshelia Britton Powell

The Honorable Ms. Lillian M. Barnett

The Honorable Mr. Alter L. Cochran

The Honorable Mr. J. David Reeves

The Honorable Mr. Anthony Rhodes

The Honorable Mr. Terrance William

2014 2013

The Honorable Ms. Alma Garlington

The Honorable Mr. David Groves

The Honorable Ms. Felicia Shingler

The Honorable Ms. Mary K. Thomas

The Honorable Mr. Ramsey Alexander, Jr.

The Honorable Mr. Gary L. Blackmon

The Honorable Ms. Beverly B. Johnson

The Honorable Ms. Marion L. Stevens *

The Honorable Mr. Oscar Williams, Jr

2012 2011

The Honorable Mr. Melvin Davis*

The Honorable Ms. Ellen G. Dyson*

The Honorable Ms. Mary Peoples

The Honorable Mr. Leonard T. Stone *

The Honorable Ms. Darlene H. Young

2010

The Honorable Mr. Julius Crouch *

The Honorable Ms Rubye Fields *

The Honorable Mr. Lamont Johnson

The Honorable Ms. Toni Martin

The Honorable Mr. Gregg Reeves

The Honorable Ms. Jacque Ballard

The Honorable Ms. C. Jacquie Beatty-Sammons

The Honorable Ms. Deborah Dawkins*

The Honorable Dr. Doris Sartor

The Honorable Ms. Faye Stewart-Henderson

2009

The Honorable Mr. Oscar Eason, Jr. *

The Honorable Ms. Ramona McCarthy-Hawkins*

The Honorable Mr. Gerald R. Reed*

The Honorable Mr. Thomas M. Walton *

Deceased *

THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE HALL OF FAME (DSHOF) is the highest honor which can be bestowed upon any single member of Blacks In Government (BIG). This honor is reserved for active and financial members who have been active in BIG for a minimum of fifteen (15) consecutive years. These individuals shall have distinguished themselves as making exceptional contributions at the national, regional, and/or chapter levels of BIG.

Region I

REGIONAL COUNCIL PRESIDENTS

Regional Council Presidents

Region II

Council President Council President

Dan Corria Honorable Phillip Atwell (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, (New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont) Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands)

Region III

Ms. Dominique Steward

Region IV

Council President Council President

Dr. Lynwood Townsend Calvin Stevens (Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia) Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee)

Region V

Honorable Alice Mercer

Region VI

Council President Council President

Honorable Shelly Warren

Honorable Faye Stewart (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, (Arkansas, Louisiana, New Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin) Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas)

Adrianne Callahan

Region VII

Region VIII

Council President Council President

Clifton Jones Audrey McCray (Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska) (Colorado, Montana, N. & S. Dakota, Utah, Wyoming)

Region IX

Honorable Michelle Blackmon

Region X

Council President Council President

Ms. Dinah Goodspeed

Region XI

Council President

Patricia Ly

Ramika Lawson Dr. Charles Horne (Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Guam, Trust Territory of Pacific Island, Washington) The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa)

Renaee Allen (Washington, DC Metro Area)

Stephan Matthews

Past National Presidents Blacks In Government®

Honorable Dr. Doris P. Sartor

Honorable Ms. Darlene H. Young

Honorable Mr. J. David Reeves

Honorable Ms. Darlene H. Young

Honorable Mr. Gregg Reeves

Honorable Mr. Gerald R. Reed

Honorable Mr. Oscar Eason, Jr. *

Mr. Marion Bowden *

Honorable Ms. Rubye Fields *

Mr. James Rogers

Ms. Mildred Goodman

Mr. Thomas Jenkins

Mr. Lonis Ballard *

Honorable Ms. Ramona McCarthy***

*Deceased

**Never elected as National President but served as the first President of the first charted chapter of BIG.

Bring Honorable Cal Stevens to YOUR organization!

We can bring Honorable Cal Stevens, author of the book, “Four Steps in Developing Your A.C.E.,” along with five powerful, results-focused workshops or training programs to your organization, customized to suit your unique needs:

-- Implementing Your Individual Development Plan

-- Who Called This Meeting Anyway?

-- Interviewing Skills in the 21st Century

-- Career Planning and Goal Setting

-- Effective Resume Writing

Discover how our fully guaranteed on-site training can help you achieve your goals.

Three dynamic keynote presentations: “What Seeds Are You Sowing?” “Developing A Whatever It Takes Attitude” “Five Principles of Success”

Employees, if you:

Why do you need a coach?

Feel stuck in your job and not progressing up the career ladder; Would like to make a career change; Are newly promoted into a leadership position; Are experiencing workforce relationship conficts; Feel stressed in your position;

Need help with interpersonal skills or have diffculty dealing with feedback; Would like to develop better communication skills; OR

Need assistance with problem solving, time management, or productivity.

Executives, if you are struggling with:

Negotiations; Management; Building coalitions; Business acumen; Leadership skills; Adaptability; Stress management;

Strategic planning; Interpersonal skills; Employee engagement; Effective communication; Feedback challenges; Inclusive leadership; Executive presence;

Emotional intelligence; Workplace culture; Organizational strategy; Building trust; Psychological safety; Building team accountability; OR Resilience.

Life Coaching: A life coach can be extremely benefcial if you are struggling with: Grief, depression, fear; Parenting;

Developing healthy relationships; New businesses challenges; Decision making; Interpersonal skills; Goal setting; Self accountability;

Developing courage and strength; Time management; Self awareness development;

Self confdence; Creating balance; Developing clear perspectives; Discovering your purpose and defning happiness; Identifying weaknesses; Developing resilience; Unlocking undiscovered potential; Eliminating negative thoughts or bad habits; Improving physical wellbeing; OR

Accepting and processing feedback.

Minority and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business

PLENARY SPEAKER

“Don’t count the days. Make the days count.”

- Muhammad Ali

OPENING PLENARY KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Sesha Joi

Moon,

PhD,

Director O"ce of Diversity and Inclusion

U.S. House of Representatives

United States Congress

Dr. Sesha Joi Moon is the Director of the O ffi ce of Diversity and Inclusion with the U.S. House of Representatives at the United States Congress. Prior to her appointment by Speaker Emerita Pelosi, she served in positions at the U.S. Department of Commerce within the Office of the Secretary and U.S. Patent and Trademark O ffi ce – concluding her tenure as the inaugural Chief Diversity Officer at the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

In addition to completing executive educations at Harvard University, she holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Policy from Old Dominion University, as well as a M.S. from the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and B.A. in African American Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is also a Senior Research Fellow with The Conference Board’s Engagement Institute as part of the Employee Engagement and Experience Council and a Senior Fellow of the Excellence in Government Fellowship Program with the Partnership for Public Service. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and has held board positions with the African American Federal Executive Association and Commonwealth of Virginia's Criminal Justice Services Board. She is also Executive Director of The JXN Project, which is a grantee of the Mellon Foundation's "Monuments Project" and has been highlighted by PBS NewsHour, TIME, The Boston Globe, and 2021 Pulitzer Prize Winner Richmond TimesDispatch. She hails from Richmond, Virginia and resides in Northern Virginia with her wife and cockapoo.

NTI SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

“History has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.”

- Michelle Obama

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE

Theme: “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development”

“Subject to Change. Check WHOVA App for Most Current Schedule.” Monday, August 28, 2023

– 2:30 PM

Your Federal Employee Benefits for the New Retirement Climate (Rita Bailey-Roland; Darlene Jenkins)

with the Blacks In Government National Executive Committee

12

PM – 2:30 PM

11 for Acquisition Professionals (Dawn Gresham)

B

PM – 2:30 PM

15 Invaluable Laws of Growth (Joe Ward)

So Hard About Being You (Sir Charles Cary)

3

A 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

4 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM First Time Attendee

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Get Your Papers Together. Keep the Money Together (Damonn Catchings)

Hall C 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

223 Federal Forum – The DEIA Experience: “Employee Engagement and Belonging” (Honorable Shirley A. Jones, ESQ; Honorable Deena Sheppard; Dr. Janice Underwood, Ph.D.; Cynthia Dunn; Pia Scott; Ms. Zina Dache Merritt; James Nelson; Honorable Katherine Cage; Constance Mayer)

Maryland Ballroom

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Agency Forum – General Services Administration Maryland 3 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Agency Forum – United States Coast Guard (USCG) Maryland 2 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Effective Management of Federal Grants, Financial Analysis, and Audit Resolution (Quintin Lynch)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Developing a Success Mindset (Wanda L. Scott; Toi B. James; Tony Farmer)

EEO Institute presents "Protecting Your Workplace Rights" (Honorable Alice Mercer)

EEO Institute presents "Leading for Respect and Respectful Workplace" (Anitra Green; Honorable Alice Mercer)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM How to Build and Sustain a Successful Advisory Board (Felicia Smith)

Chesapeake 10/11

Chesapeake 7

Chesapeake G/H

Chesapeake J/K

Chesapeake 5/6

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM National Board of Directors Training

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Find Your Core Strength (Tanya E. Hood)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Courage at Work: How to take more risks and own your brilliance (Candace Doby)

Chesapeake C

Chesapeake 1/2

Maryland 6

2:00 PM – 7:00 PM Future Leadership of America’s Government (FLAG) Youth Summit Westin Hotel Potomac

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM The AI Advantage: Maximizing Your Impact With Technology (Rhonda Brown; Curtis G Martin; LaCheka Phillips; Caliph Johnson)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Employee Burnout and Organizational Hygiene (Dawn Gresham)

Maryland Ballroom

Chesapeake B

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Living with Intentionality (Monique Uthman) Chesapeake 3

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Effective Management of Federal Grants, Financial Analysis, and Audit Resolution (Quintin Lynch)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM What is Stopping YOU? Candid Conversations around Bringing Your Own Seat to the Table (Wanda L. Scott; Toi B. James; Tony Farmer)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Leading Within Through Project Management: Accepting the Challenge and Exceeding the Standard Through Professional Development (Sharon Parker, Leading Within strategist)

Chesapeake 10/11

Chesapeake 7

4

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM EEO Institute presents "Case Update" (Marqui Willoughby; Honorable Alice Mercer)

J/K

G/H 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM EEO Institute presents "Prohibited Personnel Practices" (Honorable Alice Mercer)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM How to Build and Sustain a Successful Advisory Board (Felicia Smith)

5/6 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth (Joe Ward)

Federal Health Insurance and YOU (Danita Andrews)

Find Your Core Strength (Tanya E. Hood)

PM Increasing Employee Engagement by Creating a CourageReady Culture™ (Candace Doby)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Roundtable Part One (Dexter Brooks; Honorable Alice Mercer)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Stepping Up Your Game: Next Level Strategies for Advancing Your Career (Jay Snead)

Booth/Career Fair Exhibit Hall B

J/K 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Improving Teamwork and Communication in a Diverse World (Joe Ward)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Roles and Responsibilities of the EEO Counselor (Sandra Adams; Honorable Alice Mercer)

5/6 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Shadowing/Mentoring with the Blacks In Government National Executive Committee

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Career Advancement through Mentorship: Apprentice to Journeyman (GS-9 to GS-13) (Michael L. Gibbons, MBA)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM 223: A Year of Clear Vision to Cracking the Code to Resume Building and Understanding Your Career and Purpose! (Bonita Martin)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Personality with a Purpose: Use your Communications Skills to Connect with Your Team (Kevin M. Coleman)

12

Chesapeake 8/9

Chesapeake 10/11

Maryland Ballroom B

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM How to Create A Million Dollar Brand (Krystal Henry) Chesapeake 1/2

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM How to Secure Your Next Best Opportunity: Effective Interview Skills (Pia Scott)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Now Is Your Time: Balancing Work Life Integration (Time Management) (Dr. Robert Lemon)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Focusing on You (Kamilla Buckner)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Tech-Savvy Leadership: Enhance Your Skills and Stay Ahead of the Game (Rhonda Brown; Curtis G Martin; Caliph Johnson; LaCheka Phillips)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Federal Health and Financial Benefits in Retirement: How to Plan and the Important Things You Need to Know (Leslie Priest; Rita Bailey-Roland; Darlene Jenkins)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Living Life in Style During Retirement (Delante Greer; Nicolas Abrams; Roderick Liptrot)

Westin Hotel Potomac Room

Chesapeake 4

Maryland 2

Chesapeake 7

Chesapeake B

Chesapeake C

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Improving Teamwork and Communication in a Diverse World (Joe Ward)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Career Advancement through Mentorship: Apprentice to Journeyman (GS-9 to GS-13) (Michael L. Gibbons, MBA)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM 223: A Year of Clear Vision to Cracking the Code to Resume Building and Understanding Your Career and Purpose! (Bonita Martin)

Chesapeake 5/6

Chesapeake 8/9

Chesapeake 10/11

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Blood Drive and Health Screenings Exhibit Hall A

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Roundtable Part Two (Dexter Brooks; Honorable Alice Mercer)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EEO Institute presents – What to Do When You Make the Best Qualified List but are Not Selected

Chesapeake G/H

Chesapeake G/H

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Legislative Luncheon Exhibit Hall C

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM NOW Generation Presents "Munch and Mingle" Westin Hotel Potomac Room

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Agency Forum: Veterans Administration (VA) Maryland 4 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Agency Forum: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Maryland 3

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Agency Forum: Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Maryland 2

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM Agency Forum: Health and Human Services (HHS) Exhibit Hall A

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM The Power of Taking Risks! Believing in Yourself and the Courage to Succeed! (Dr. Terrence Tarver) Chesapeake B

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Strength of Career Road Mapping: Strategically Navigating the Professional Landscape through 10 tips (Michael L. Gibbons, MBA)

Chesapeake 8/9

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM The Art of Communication (Kendrick Tilghman) Chesapeake 5/6

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Getting to the Next Level – Becoming a Transformational Leader (Carl Brown)

Ballroom C

3 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Things We Deserve: Generational Wealth Maximization (Musu Walker) Maryland Ballroom D

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM How to Create A Million Dollar Brand (Krystal Henry)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Get to Know Microsoft (James Somerville) Chesapeake 10/11

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM EEO Institute presents – Leading Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) From Where You Are Part One (Dr. Janice Underwood, Ph.D.)

Chesapeake J/K

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM EEO Institute presents – Special Emphasis Program, Part One (Marcus Artis) Chesapeake J/K

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Strengthening Organizational Culture from the Inside Out (Allison Manswell)

Chesapeake 1/2

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Dealing with Bullies in the Workplace (Derrick Felton) Chesapeake C

1:30 PM – 3:30 PM State and Local Forum Maryland 6

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Disrupt Aging (Debra Tyler Horton) Maryland Ballroom C

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Protecting Your Assets with Supplemental Insurance (Corey Thurman) Chesapeake 4

National Training Institute August 24-31, 2023

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Change Your Mind, Change Your Waistline (Tamika Quinn) Chesapeake 5/6

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Radiate the Brain and Change the Game (Sir Charles Cary) Maryland Ballroom C

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM AI is a game changer! (James Somerville)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM EEO Institute presents – EEO in the Private, State, and Local State Sectors to include FEPA

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM EEO Institute presents – Leading Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) From Where You Are Part Two (Dr. Janice Underwood, Ph.D.)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Strengthening Organizational Culture from the Inside Out (Allison Manswell)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Dealing with Bullies in the Workplace (Derrick Felton)

PM – 6:00 PM BIG Gospel Extravaganza Rehearsal

PM –

PM NTI Daily Team Meeting

Wednesday, August 30, 2023 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM Walk-4-Health

8/9

G/H

J/K

1/2

C

1 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Future Leaders in America’s Government (FLAG) Breakfast

AM – 8:00 AM NTI Daily Team Meeting/Command Center

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Post-Pandemic Investing Strategies for Federal Employees Over 50: Navigating the New Normal (Delante Greer; Nicolas Abrams; Roderick Liptrot)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Prevention of Harassment (Marcus Artis)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Have You Met Me: Being Authentic While Building Better Relationships (Dr. Becky Bell)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM The Pursuit of Excellence (Andrea D. Campbell)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM 21st Century Skills for Success (Conrad Brian Law; Amina Jones Law)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM How to Reach Your Career Goals Against All Odds (Kellie Walker)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM What's So Hard About Being You (Sir Charles Cary)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Living with Intentionality (Monique Uthman)

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Preparing Effective Writing: Management Concepts Exclusive Workshop (4HRs) (Margaret Eggleston)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Getting to the Next Level: Becoming a Transformational Leader (Carl Brown)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM 5 Communication Power Moves of Catalytic Leaders (Servola Frazier)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM EEO Institute presents – EEO for Managers and Supervisors (Honorable Alice Mercer)

5

J/K

1/2

4

5/6

Ballroom B

4

B

Ballroom C

5/6

G/H

AM – 9:30 AM Intro to Cyber Security (Johnnie Simson)

AM – 4:30 PM Shadowing/Mentoring with the Blacks In Government National Executive Committee

12

AM – 12:00 PM Health and Wellness Forum

AM – 11:30 AM GEHA Presents: Men’s Health and Why African-American Men Resist going to the Doctor (Earl Toole)

AM – 11:30 AM An Interactive Introduction to Design Thinking: A HumanCentered Approach to Creative Problem Solving (Dr. Gary C. Powell)

5/6

C 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM The Journey of Optimal Health: Exceed the Challenge (Jo Woods) Maryland Ballroom D

AM – 11:30 AM Executive Level Federal Resume Writing and Interviewing Techniques (Linda Gray)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Find Out What it Takes to Become a Senior Executive Service (SES) Member (Z Hamilton)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Living Consciously: A Critical Component to Your Professional Development Plan (Ayo Hinds-Bankole)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Protect Your Energy within the Government Workplace (Terrence Woodbury)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Are You Leading Forward or Leaning Backward? (Amina Jones Law; Conrad Brian Law)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Capturing the Attention of Others with Influential Communication (Theresa Proctor)

Chesapeake 1/2

Chesapeake 3

Chesapeake 10/11

Maryland Ballroom B

Maryland Ballroom C

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Managing Across Cultures (Kim Shaw; Servola Frazier) Chesapeake 5/6

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Special Emphasis Program, Part Two (Marcus Artis)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EEO Institute presents – Proceeding Before Merit System Protection Board (Melinda Holliday-McDonald)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Workshop “Creating Effective Flyers/Professional Presentations” (Jibri R Mayo)

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM Future Leaders in America’s Government (FLAG) Luncheon

Chesapeake J/K

Chesapeake G/H

Chesapeake 4

Eastern Shore 2

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM NOW Generation Panel Discussion Westin Hotel Potomac Room

1:00 PM – 4:30 PM Working within the Federal Budget Process: Management Concepts Exclusive Workshop (Margaret Eggleston)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Relentless Life Resilience: 3 Coping Practices to Challenge Life Changes (Antoinette Capri)

Chesapeake B

Chesapeake 4

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Cross Generational Communication: How Can All Five Generations Work Together Effectively? (Cynthia Dunn)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM 5 Steps to Maximize your Federal Employee Retirement and Estate Planning (Gerald Jones)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM The Pursuit of Excellence (Andrea D. Campbell)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Getting to the Next Level becoming a Transformational Leader (Carl Brown)

Chesapeake C

Chesapeake 5/6

Chesapeake 10/11

Chesapeake 1/2

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Creating an Effective Career Development Plan (Hon. Calvin Stevens) Chesapeake 7

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Code Switching: The Art of Professional Communication Techniques to Enhance Your Success (Chaz Gipson)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace (Servola Frazier; George Frazier)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Strength of Career Road Mapping: Strategically Navigating the Professional Landscape through 10 tips (Michael L. Gibbons, MBA)

Chesapeake 3

Chesapeake 5/6

Chesapeake A

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM TEAM – Together Everyone Achieves More (Dr. Robert Lemon) Maryland 4

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM EEO Institute presents – Non-Verbal Cues and Its AffectedOn DEIA (Jamie Williamson)

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM EEO Institute presents – Strategy When Engaging the EEO Process (Donna Rucker, Esq.)

2:00 PM – 2:00 PM EEO Institute presents – Arrest and Convictions (Tonya Lennox; Kyla Hanington; Rosemarie Rhodes)

Chesapeake G/H

Chesapeake J/K

Chesapeake G/H

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Military Veterans Emphasis Program (MVEP) Chesapeake 10/11

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Intrusive Leadership: The Most Critical Leadership Style for the Future (Marcus Canady)

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Federal Retirement Planning for Health and Wealth: Things You Need to Know When Planning for Retirement (Leslie Priest; Rita Bailey-Roland; Darlene Jenkins)

Chesapeake 5/6

Maryland 5

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Just Dance – Sponsored by GEHA (Sheila Payne) Maryland 6

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Refine Your Federal Resume (Charmaine Johnson (formerly McDaniel)) Chesapeake 5

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Keep Calm and Pivot! (Pivoting Calmly Through Chaos in the Workplace and in Life) (Theresa Royal Brown)

Chesapeake 1/2

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM The Power of Influence (Servola Frazier) Chesapeake 5/6

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM EEO Institute presents – LGBTQIA+ Cultural Competency in the Workplace (Janine Herring) Chesapeake J/K

3:00 PM – 4:30 PM Ten (10) Keys to Career Advancement” (Kevin M. Coleman) Chesapeake 7

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM Workshop “Creating Effective Flyers/Professional Presentations” (Jibri R Mayo) Chesapeake C

C 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM NTI Daily Team Meeting/Command Center

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM Youth STEM Competition

Shore 1 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM BIG Gospel Extravaganza Rehearsal

Ballroom 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM STEM and Oratorical Reception

Shore 2

Thursday, August 31, 2023

6:00 AM – 7:00 AM UnitedHeathcare presents "YOGA with BIG" Exhibit Hall Section 2

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM NTI Daily Team Meeting/Command Center

Shore 1

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Exhibit Hall/BIG Store/Evaluations/Membership Booths Exhibit Hall B

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM STEM and Oratorical Breakfast Eastern Shore 2

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Creating an Effective Career Development Plan (Hon. Calvin Stevens) Chesapeake I/J

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Eliminating Conflict In the Workplace (Tanya E. Hood) Maryland 4

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Retirement & Estate Planning Workshop (Gerald Jones) Chesapeake A

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Stepping Up Your Game: Next Level Strategies for Advancing Your Career (Jay Snead)

Chesapeake B

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Focusing on You (Kamilla Buckner) Maryland 2

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Tips for Briefing the Big Bosses (Cedric Deal)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Have You Met Me: Being Authentic While Building Better Relationships (Dr. Becky Bell)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM

WAKE UP SLEEPING BEAUTY: Leadership and Life Lessons from Our Fairy Tales (Dr. Latonya L. Small)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Shhhh, I Quit (Debbie Woodbury)

8:00 AM – 12:00 PM EEO Institute presents "Mock EEO Hearing" (Honorable Alice Mercer)

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM Zero Trust Training: Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), ZTNA/ZTA Demonstrations (Mr. Srinivas Talasila; Miss. Aida Zyryku; Mr. Siva Thota; Johnnie Simson)

8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Shadowing/Mentoring with the Blacks In Government National Executive Committee

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Youth Oratorical Competition

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Eliminating Conflict In the Workplace (Tanya E. Hood)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Executive Level Federal Resume Writing and Interviewing Techniques (Linda Gray)

Chesapeake 10/11

Chesapeake 8/9

Chesapeake 5/6

Chesapeake C

Chesapeake G/H

Westin Hotel Potomac Room

Chesapeake 12

Chesapeake A

Maryland 4

Maryland 2

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Turning on the Income Potential of the TSP (Martavius Jones) Chesapeake A

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Get to Know Microsoft 365 (James Somerville)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM How to Master Your Job Series and Build a Qualifying Resume (Hope White)

Chesapeake B

Chesapeake 4

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM The Secret Sauce of Wealth Building – Financial strategies we all should have learned BEFORE college (Charles Brown, J.)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Shhhh, I Quit (Debbie Woodbury)

National Training Institute August 24-31, 2023 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Zero Trust Training: Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), ZTNA/ZTA Demonstrations (Mr. Srinivas Talasila; Miss. Aida Zyryku; Mr. Siva Thota; Johnnie Simson)

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM WAKE UP SLEEPING BEAUTY: Leadership and Life Lessons from Our Fairy Tales (Dr. Latonya L. Small)

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Distinguished Service Hall of Fame (DSHOF) Honorees, New Life/Gold Plus Members Recognition Program

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM National BEPAC Annual Workplan and Training

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM NTI Daily Team Meeting/Command Center

Chesapeake 6

Chesapeake C

Westin Hotel Potomac Room

Chesapeake 5/6

Eastern Shore 1

Maryland 2

Eastern Shore 1

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Closing Plenary Maryland Ballroom 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM BIG GIG Exhibit Hall A

REGION & CHAPTER GREETINGS

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

- Nelson Mandela

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT REGION I EXTENDS CONGRATULATIONS & Best Wishes to Region XI

On Hosting the 2023 National Training Institute

Oxon Hill, Maryland

REGIONAL DIRECTORS

Jacqulyn D. Allen, NBoD Vice Chair Anthony Thomas

REGIONAL COUNCIL OFFICERS

Danny R. Corria, President Gernai Bledsoe, Vice President

Haywood Hunter, Treasurer

REGION I CHAPTERS

Greater Boston Chapter CT BIG Chapter

Ralph F. Browne, Jr, Chapter Volpe BIG Chapter

Greater Providence of Rhode Island Chapter

CHAPTER OFFICERS

PRESIDENT

Elma Williams-Coleman

VICE-PRESIDENT

Dr. Lynwood Townsend

SECRETARY

Dedra Townsend

TREASURER

Shavanda Bostic

PARLIAMENTARIAN

Harriette Tullos-Banks

Membership

Dr. Lynwood Townsend

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Jajuana Avery

Brenda Gates

Tony Moss

Thomas Briscoe

NOW GENERATION

Kadijah Muhammad

PROGRAM & PLANNING

Ken Collins

Robert Taft

HISTORIAN

Dedra Townsend

WEBMASTER

Joycelyn Josey- Harris

REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

Elma Williams-Coleman

Dr. Lynwood Townsend

Dedra Townsend

EEO ADVISORS

Ken Collins

Renita Cason

Dr. Marietto Jeffries

Robert Taft

The Members of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) Chapter of Blacks in Government (BIG) in Dahlgren, VA, send congratulations on the success of BIG’s 2023 National Training Institute (NTI).

Theme: “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development”

Check out our website

http://www.bignet.org/regional/region3/NSWCDD

We are committed to professional growth and excellence via Mentoring and Coaching. We are on the “move” to higher grounds with the National Office and Region III.

Let’s continue to keep the BIG SPIRIT alive!

Active Leaders, Supporters, and Believers of STEM!

Elma Williams-Coleman President

Dr. Lynwood Townsend Vice-President

BEST WISHES

AND CONGRATULATIONS

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT® ON YOUR

2023 ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE

REGION VII

COUNCIL OFFICERS

TITLE CHAPTER

PRESIDENT

NAME

NEBRASKA CHAPTER CLIFTON JONES

VICE PRESIDENT GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER

EDWARD WASHINGTON

TREASURER SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER DELORES IVY

SECRETARY SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

COUNCIL CHAPTER PRESIDENTS

CHAPTER

GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER

COLUMBIA HEARTLAND CHAPTER

NEBRASKA CHAPTER

SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

COUNCIL PRESIDENT

CLIFTON JONES

NEBRASKA CHAPTER

COUNCIL SECRETARY

THELONIA PLUMMER

SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

THELONIA PLUMMER

NAME

SONDRA TUCKER

KATHRYN CREWS

CLIFTON JONES

TONI DUPREE

COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT

EDWARD WASHINGTON

GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER

REGIONAL DIRECTOR

ROBIN MCDANIEL-BECK

GREATER KANSAS CITY CHAPTER

COUNCIL TREASURER

DELORES IVY

SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

REGIONAL DIRECTOR

CHRISTINE WILDER

SAINT LOUIS METROPOLITAN CHAPTER

Hon. Dr. Ethel Crisp President

Tywanna Greene 1st Vice President

Hon. Deena Sheppard 2nd Vice President

Antionette Hall Corresponding Secretary Adrianne Callahan Treasurer

Tamela Martin Assistant Treasurer

Donna Howard Secretary

Honorable Deena Sheppard National First Vice Preside nt Committee Chair

Gernai Bledsoe RI POC

Hon. Philip Atwell RII POC

Hon. Jackie Pitts RIII POC

Rev. Dr. Montrez Nicholson RIV & RX POC

Donna Howard RV POC

Frank Traylor RVI POC

Dr. Jesse Sharpe RVIII POC

Michelle Waldron-Patterson RXI POC

Hon. Dr. Ethel Crisp Proclamations POC

Best Wishes for an Outstanding 44th Annual National Training Institute

Bellwood Chapter Officers

President: Linora Carr

Vice President: LaTarche Singh

Secretary: Charita Branch

Treasurer: Shaunese Gordon

Financial Secretary: Otto Essen

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT Department of Labor Chapter

Extends Congratulations on a Successful Blacks In Government

2023 National Training Institute

NTITheme

“Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development ”

BIG-DOL Programs & Activities

▪ Affirmative Employment / Equal Employment Opportunity (AE/EEO)

▪ Equity@DOL Council

▪ DOL Affinity Groups Council

▪ African American History Month

▪ Legal Assistance Program

▪ Member Education Program

▪ Health and Wellness Program

▪ Scholarship Program

▪ Educational Seminars

▪ Thanksgiving Baskets Food Drive/Gift Cards

▪ Seniors Citizens Holiday Project

▪ Chapter Delegates – BIG National Delegates Assembly

▪ BIG Region XI Council Representatives

BIG-DOL ~

Promoting BIG Goals and Objectives at DOL and in the Community !!!

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Dr. Sidney W. Samuel

Michael G. Parrish, Jr. President Program and Planning

Michael G. Parrish, Jr.

Robin D. Lester

First Vice President Membership

Robin D. Lester

Second Vice President

Debra D. Mainz

Recording Secretary

Sheila M. Stevens

Corresponding Secretary

Hallie R. Glascoe

Noel L. Cox

Affirmative Employment/EEO

Thomas P. Burke

Communication & Public Relations

Rushie McKnight-Lewis / Adrienne R. Shaw

Health & Wellness

Catherine M. Hackett

Treasurer Member Grants & Awards

Lisa J. Hawkins

Cheryl A. Sims

Assistant Treasurer Scholarship Program

REGION XI COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE

Davena R. Archie

Rev. Barbara Johnson Cox

Michael G. Parrish, Jr.

Dr. Sidney W. Samuel [alternate]

Robin D. Lester [alternate]

Mailing Address

Post Office Box 2223 Washington, DC 20013-2223

Website www.bignet.org/regional/DOL

E-mail Address labor@bignet.org

Facebook Page www.facebook.com/BIGNETDOL

Sidney Samuel Michael Parrish

Robin Lester

Sheila Stevens

Hallie Glascoe

Lisa Hawkins

Debra Mainz

Blacks In Government of Greater Kansas City, Inc., Region VII

Congratulations and Best Wishes for a Successful 44rd National Training nstitute in National Harbor, Maryland “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development” August 28 – 31, 2023

Officers:

President – Sondra Tucker

Vice President – Veronica Bailey

Recording Secretary – Patricia Hawkins

Correspondence Secretary – Robin W. McDaniel-Beck

Treasurer – Edward Washington

Board Members:

Alberta Walker - Chair

Willie Littles

Lamont Lane

Robert Woods

Gloria Cody

National Region VII Director - Robin W. McDaniel-Beck

Pictured from left to right: Tracey Bradford, Margaret McNeil, Edward Washington, Robin McDaniel-Beck, Willie Littles, Thomas Randolph, Sondra Tucker, Gloria Cody, Joni Jones, Alberta Walker, and Patricia Hawkins

PS 197

Harlem John B. Russwurm Elementary: supported by blacks in government

Thank you

Joanne Palmer

President of the NY Elite Chapter of Big Region II for adopting our school

on the 44th Annual National Training Institute

BIG-DHS

Earnest Moore Vice-President

Cynthia Martin Treasurer

Paula Clay Secretary

6817 Dogwood Road

Baltimore, MD 21244

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY (nonrefundable/nontransferable)

$85/person June 1 ~ Dec 31, 2023

$100/person Jan 1 ~ July 31, 2024

DINNER BUFFET, CASH BAR, DJ, ENTERTAINMENT, and more …

For more info call (301) 325-3971 or (301) 273-5570

Dress to Impress (Semi Formal Attire)

Martin’s West

Honorable Terrence Williams and Mrs. Labertha Williams Greater Dayton Chapter Immediate Past President and Secretary

Wishing our Blacks In Government Family

A Successful

44th Annual National Training Institute

Region III Officers

Regional Directors

Blacks

Dr. Lynwood Townsend President

Aviann Usher Vice President

Mark Stone Financial Secretary

Alicia Guyton Parliamentarian

Amy Hooks Secretary

Dian Carr Treasurer

Dale Scott Michael Upshaw

In Government - Region III

Best Wishes For A Successful National Training Institute

Executve Commitee

Council President Honorable Shelly Warren

First Vice President Romeal Dorsay Johnson

Secretary Frances Walters

Assistant Secretary Cynthia Davis

Treasurer Kimberly Williams

Assistant Treasurer David Hines

Regional Director

Honorable Katherine Cage

Regional Director Frank Traylor

Natonal Treasurer Honorable Faye Stewart

Region VI Chapters

Austn Chapter Honorable Gregory Reeves

Central Arkansas Chapter Monica Cato

Dallas Metroplex Chapter Gwenda Lowe

Greater New Orleans Chapter

Honorable Shelly Warren

Houston Area Chapter Honorable Katherine Cage

Lower MS River Chapter Charleston Briton

North Texas Chapter Jacqueline Horne

San Antonio Chapter Dr. Eustace Lewis

USDA Chapter Chana Thompson

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT

Region VIII

Extends Congratulatons on a Successful 2023 Natonal Training Insttute

REGIONAL LEADERSHIP

PRESIDENT: Michelle Blackmon

1st VICE PRESIDENT: Honorable Gary Blackmon

2nd VICE PRESIDENT: Heidi Ellis-Casteel

TREASURER: Michael Smith

RECORDING SECRETARY: Dorthea Thompson

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY: Tanya Burks

PARLIAMENTARIAN: Wilford Buggs

REGIONAL DIRECTOR: Nichelle Rogers

REGIONAL DIRECTOR: Julie Hicks

htps://bigregion8.wixsite.com/region8

The Dallas Metroplex Chapter of BIG Enthusiastically Congratulates

“Accept The Challenge, Exceed The Standard Through Professional Development”

We, the Dallas Metroplex Chapter of BIG, are prepared to answer the call and accept the challenge. We know that there is much work to be done and in order to be an advocate for change, we must equip ourselves with the knowledge and skills needed for the task Our chapter knows that we are to be: Vocal, Visible, and Vigilant

Our city’s motto is “Dallas: Big Things Happen Here” and we are Proud to say That BIG is Making things Happen in Dallas.

ENJOY THIS YEARS National Training Institute.

President Gwenda J. Lowe

Executive Vice President Carol Curley Davis

1st Vice President Clifford Gilliard

Secretary Patricia Jones

Corresponding Secretary Mae Frances Rowlett

Treasurer David Hines

Program & Planning Romeal-Dorasay Johnson

Project BIG Vote Charlene Henry Lee

Mrs. Gwenda J. Lowe

Dallas Metroplex Chapter President

Blacks In Government Region III

Susquehanna Chapter

The Officers and Members of Susquehanna Chapter Extend Our Best Wishes To Blacks In Government For a Successful

“Blacks In Government 2023 National Training Institute”

“Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development”

Committed to Equity, Excellence & Opportunity For All

VA HQ Chapter, Region XI, Blacks in Government (BIG)

BIG's goals are to promote equity in the workplace, excellence in public service, and education in our communities.

The VA HQ Chapter is actively involved in our community and schools providing resources and opportunities that promote excellence in public service. Recently, we:

Hosted Financial Management and Career Development seminars

Hosted the Future Leaders in America’s Government Program (FLAG) in partnership with local DC High Schools

Partnered with American Red Cross to host 3 blood drives

Sponsored a Book Drive donating 350+ books to promote youth reading programs

Achieved the 2020, 2021, & 2022 RXI Chapter of Year Award

For more information about the VAHQ Chapter, please go to our VAHQ Linked In page or our VAHQ Chapter website https://bigvahqchapter.wixsite.com/bigvahqchapter/home Chapter contact email vahqbigchapter@va.gov

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT ENERGY CHAPTER

The Officers and Members of the Energy Chapter Extends Best Wishes for a successful 44th Annual National Training Institute

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Honorable Shirley A. Jones. Esq.

Region XI President Stephan Matthews

Energy Chapter Officers President

Tara Fuller

First Vice President

Jenene Lee

Second Vice President

Vernita Galloway Treasurer

Denise Freeman

Assistant Treasurer

George Williams

Recording Secretary

Lettie Wormley

Corresponding Secretary

Tiffany Jones

Parliamentarian

Octavia Gorham-Greenhill

Historian/Chaplain

Shirley Cambrel

Immediate Past President

Vera Dunmore

“Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work and a business grow, let’s work together for the BIG Vision and Mission!! Now that’s what we call BIG ENERGY!!!”

Congratulations to the National Blacks In Government Organization on holding it’s 44th NTI and Region XI!

CDC/ATSDR Chapter of Blacks In Government

BIG® PENTAGON CHAPTER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President

Frank Q. Williams

1st Vice President

Michael Wilson

2nd Vice President

Honorable Mary K. Thomas

Secretary

Tiffany Campbell

Treasurer

Honorable Farnese J. Hicks

Regional Council Representatives

Honorable Farnese J. Hicks

Honorable Mary K. Thomas

Frank Q. Williams

Committees

Programs & Education

1st Vice President

Membership

2nd Vice President

Hospitality

Honorable Farnese J. Hicks & Annette Jennings

Community Outreach

Brent Phillips & Natasha Edwards

Equal Employment Opportunity

Kevin Bremby

Scholarship

1st Vice President

Parliamentarian

Tangie Phair

Webmaster

Honorable Dr. Hezekiah Braxton, III

NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE (NTI)

“BIG® 2023 – Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development”

AGENGY FORUMS & SEPS

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”

- Dr. Mae Jemison

SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE

Special Enhancement Programs (SEPs) Monday,

(all location and times are subject to change)

2023 NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE

(location and times are subject to change)

44th National Training Institute

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center

Monday, August 28, 2023 - 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Maryland Ballroom

2023 Federal Forum

“The DEIA Experience: Employee Engagement and Belonging” Attend

Honorable Deena M. Sheppard

National First Vice President and Program Chair

deena.sheppard@bigrv.org

2022-2023 CLASS

When: Monday, August 28, 2023

Time: 5 - 7 pm

Where: Eastern Shore Room 1*

dylaacademy1.wixsite.com/dyla

WHEN: Monday, August 28, 2023

TIME: 7:00pm – 8:30pm

WHERE: Eastern Shore Room 1

https://dylaacademy1.wixsite.com/dyla

∗ Subject to change

DARLENE H. YOUNG LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Blacks In Government

44th Annual National Training Institute

DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AGENCY FORUM

Theme

“Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard Through Professional Development”

Professional Development Opportunities at DOL

Briefings and Presentations: How to Effectively Communicate with Ease and Confidence

Michael J. Hughes

Program Manager, Division of Workforce Development and Incl usion, DOL Office of Human Resources

Conflict Management

Tony D. Williams

SESSIONS

Associate Commissioner, Office of Technology and Survey Processing, DOL, Bureau of Labor Statistics

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

8:30 AM – 12 PM

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center Room: Maryland 5 201 Waterfront Street

National Harbor, Maryland 20745

** Presented by U.S. Department of Labor AND Blacks In Government Department of Labor Chapter **

J O I N E E O C F O R T H E

N A T I O N A L B I G 2 0 2 3 A E / E E O I N S T I T U T E A U G U S T 2 8 - 3 1 , 2 0 2 3

A c c e p t t h e C h a l l e n g e , E x c e e d t h e S t a n d a r d T h r o u g h

P r o f e s s i o n a l D e v e l o p m e n t

T h e E E O C h a s p a r t n e r e d w i t h B l a c k s I n G o v e r n m e n t t o o f f e r s e v e r a l

E E O t r a i n i n g s e s s i o n s t h a t q u a l i f y f o r E E O r e f r e s h e r c r e d i t s .

A t t e n d e e s w i l l h a v e t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o l e a r n a b o u t t h e A f f i r m a t i v e E m p l o y m e n t & E q u a l E m p l o y m e n t O p p o r t u n i t y ( A E / E E O ) P r o g r a m a n d g a i n n e w i n s i g h t s i n t o E E O p r a c t i c e s .

E n h a n c e y o u r p r o f e s s i o n a l d e v e l o p m e n t a n d n e t w o r k w i t h o t h e r p r o f e s s i o n a l s f r o m a c r o s s t h e c o u n t r y w h o s h a r e y o u r p a s s i o n f o r E E O .

D o n ' t m i s s o u t o n t h i s u n i q u e o p p o r t u n i t y t o i m p r o v e y o u r s k i l l s a n d e x c e e d t h e s t a n d a r d i n E E O p r a c t i c e s .

Register now and reserve your spot at the 2023 National Training Institute. (https://bignti.org/)

Seeking Volunteers for Speed Mentoring Session at NTI

Blacks In Government, NOW Generation will be partnering with Future Leaders in America's Government (FLAG) Program to host a speed mentoring event. The NOW Generation will serve as mentors to the FLAG mentees to briefly discuss their career progression and other topics related to professional development.

Concept: Mentors will sit with a set of FLAG students at each table. Mentors can provide a brief background of themselves and allow time for students to ask questions.

This event will be held at the 44th Annual National Training Institute at Gaylord Convention Center at National Harbor, MD. For more information about the NTI, please visit: https://bignti.org

Event Timing: Monday, August 28, 2023 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

Location: Gaylord Convention Center

Contact Monisha Barnes, RXI NOW Chair rxinowgeneration@gmail.com

August 29th

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. E.S.T Virtual

MICROSOFT TEAMS

Meeting ID: 275 963 539 183

Passcode: FU9Me8

SPEAKER click her e

2023 BIG Health Forum

Health Disparities in Communities of Color: Action and Polices Addressing These Issues Moderator

Dr. Beverly Lyn-Cook, BIG National Health and Wellness

Wednesday, August 30, 2023 10:00-1:00

This forum will address health issues impacting health disparities in communities of color: 1) Cardiovascular Disease, 2) The Importance of Genetic Ancestry in Cancer Patients, 3) What Black Americans Should Know about Pancreatic Cancer, 4) Clinical Trials: All of Us Program

Forum Speakers

Cardiovascular Disease and Communities of Color: Tiffany Powell-Wiley, M.D.,M.P.H.-National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute, NIH

The Importance of Genetic Ancestry in Cancer Patients : Dr. Clayton C. Yates– Director for Translational Health Disparities and Global Health Equity Research, John Hopkins School of Medicine

Pancreatic Cancer Rise in the Black Community-. Dr. Beverly D. Lyn-Cook- FDA/National Center for Toxicological Research

Keynote Speaker Dr. Rhonda Moore

Medical Anthropologist, Author, Program Director, GCR, All of Us Research Program, NIH

“All of Us: What you should know about Clinical Trials”

Panel Discussion Questions and Answers

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT

44RD ANNUAL NATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTE

MILITARY VETERAN’S EMPHASIS

PROGRAM(MVEP) FORUM

When: Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Time: 3 - 5 pm

Where: Maryland 2

BLACKS IN GOVERNMENT 2023 STEM COMPETITIO

Theme: “The Water Crisis in America, How Do We Repair It?”

9th thru 12th Grade

Wednesday

AUGUST 30,2023

5:00PM-6:30PM

Room – Chesapeake C

Honorable Deena M. Sheppard National First Vice President and Program Chair deena.Sheppard@bigrv.org

“ARE

RIGHTS

Blacks In Government 2023 National Training Institute “Accept the Challenge, Exceed the Standard through Professional Development.”

Congratulations on the 44th Annual National Training Institute from the National First Vice President’s Roundtable!

Ruby Dunson, RIV

Hon. Dr. Ethel Crisp Resolutions Committee Rep

Gernai Bledsoe, RI

Aviann Usher, RIII

Hon. Deena Sheppard First Vice President Roundtable Chair

Danny Wade 2nd Vice President

Mazella Thomas 3rd Vice President

Hon. Gary Blackmon, RVIII

Allynn Ruth, RX

Annette Gardner EEO Committee Rep.

Ronald McCullough, R IX

Pia Scott, RXI

Michael Roach, RII

MEMBERSHIP

“Those who say it can’t be done are usually interrupted by others doing it.”

- James Baldwin

2023 New Lifetime Members CONGRATULATIONS…

Region I

Ashley Allen, Greater Boston

Region II

Kaaryn White Midtown Manhattan

Region III

Niki McFarlin, Shaunese Gordon, and Shyamal Banerjee, Bellwood Dara Graham, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Wanza Jonjo, Greater Baltimore Everett Kelley, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Earnestine Kearse, Letitia Clark, Rachelee Peacock, and Tracy Robinson New Cumberland Susquehanna Beverly White and Dr. Vance Evans, North East Liberty

Region IV

Irene Aggrey-Antwi and LaQuita Watson-Parks, Atlanta Metro GSA Benjamin Yearwood, Eunita Holton, Jackie Mathis, Kathryn Jones, Crystal Flemming, and Terrance Evans CDC -ATSDR June Cox Central Florida Brandi Dennis Huntsville Madison County Andytra Lewis

Jacksonville First Coast Wanda Fickens Suburban Atlanta

Region V

Alan Thomas Greater Indianapolis Sharon Webb Lake Erie Donna Howard New Kemet Harambe Annie Johnson Southern Illinois

Region VI

Jason Belle and Margaret Jones -Johnson BIG Dallas Metroplex Tammy Chambers Central Arkansas Sandra Warren and Stave Warren Greater New Orleans

2023 New Lifetime Members CONGRATULATIONS…

Region VII

Arthur Whittaker BIG Greater Kansas City Linda French Nebraska

Region VIII

Cheryl Williamson Denver City Complex Muriel Watson Downtown Denver

Region IX

Carmela Smith and Shavonda Thomas Sacramento Metro Lynn McMiller and Zephanii Smith Eisenstat Pacific Ocean

Region X

Lt. David Barron Eugene Chapter of BIG

Region XI

Antoinette Lipford and Kevin Gibson Benjammin Banneker Elliot Griggs, James Santos, Tiffany Campbell, and Jacquelyn Kelley BIG Pentagon Glenn Grayer and Kristina Price Coast Guard

Alonzo McSwain, Lt. Col Clifton Rhodes, Karinda Washington, Ni’eema Ba’th, Robin Williamson, Shana Morris, and Terrance Walton Dept Homeland Security Fawntrella Thompson Dept of Treasury Clarey Walker, Martin Williams, Michelle Coffey, and Natalie Taliaferro Defense Intelligence Agency Wanda Smith Energy Michael Reese EPA William D. Barber Jr. Bonita Barnes

FEMA Latisha Chappin and Temitayo Ifafor-Calfee Harry T. Moore USAID Erwin Miller and Marqui Barnes HHS WDC/College Park Complex Dorene Swinson IRS/NCFB Dr. Sarah Mburu, Edward Kelly, and Tonya Lesane Khalfani Dr. Emanuel Waddell, Dr. Sylvia Spengler, Natasha

Killens, Sandra Evans, and Zaneta Tyler National Science Foundation Dr. Theresa Bannister

Scott-Woodruff NOAA Fatima Anthony and Mekonen Bayssie Nuclear Regulatory Commission Nicole Mayfield Parklawn FDA HQ & HRSA HQ Antonio Ellis and Terri Norris Suitland Federal Center Terri Norris, Jolynn Winn Tri-City Carlos Garnett, Malinda Hawkins, Nicole Behling, Renzina Peele Henderson, Sandra Mapp, and Tracy Rayford Umoja Rober Harris USDA George Washington Carver Alex Patton, Christine Nishiguchi, Dionne Dent, Linda Dejan, Lias Swanson, and Lori Caudle Veterans Affairs Headquarters

The Hon Gerald R. Reed Past National President “Always Remembered”

Members

CONGRATULATIONS…

2023 New GoldPlus

Mechele Campbell, CDC-ATSDR Chapter - RIV

Terrence Jones, CDC-ATSDR Chapter - RIV

Divonna LaLand, CDC-ATSDR Chapter - RIV

Annie Johnson, Southern Illinois Chapter - RV

Monisha Barnes, Veterans Affairs Headquarters – RXI

Michelle Clark, Parklawn Chapter - RXI

Robin Williamson, Dept Homeland Security - RXI

To:

to Onyour44th AnnualNationalTrainingInstitute

Ebony Society of Philatelic Events and Reflec�ons

The Ebony Society of Philatelic Events and Reflections (ESPER) is an international stamp society dedicated to promoting the collecting of stamps and philatelic materials depicting people and events related to African Americans and the African diaspora.

Please visit our website – www.esperstamps.com

Our Mission

•Foster an interest in collec�ng philatelic materials of African American people and events

•Introduce African Americans to the hobby of philately (stamp collec�ng)

•Atend stamp shows and First Day of Issue Ceremonies

•Promote Black history in local schools, libraries, civic centers, museums and churches

•Provide lectures, presenta�ons and exhibits at na�onal and local events

•Help start youth philatelic clubs to support the teaching of Black history

•Maintain our quarterly award winning newsleter, “Reflectons”

NETWORKING WORKSHEET

“Have a vision. Be demanding.” – Colin Powell

1. PLAN: List 3-5 people you would like to meet at the NTI

2. PLAN: What do you want to learn about at the NTI? (Ex: Job Profession, Agency, Program, Volunteer Opportunity, etc.)

3. PLAN: List 3 questions you specifically would like to ask in relation to #2

4. PREPARE: What is your greeting for #1?

5. FINISH BIG: List at least 3 connections you made at the NTI (name & contact info.)