33rd annual national training conference region eleven ...a retiree stays in touch at big’s...

Thank you for contributing

and enjoy the 2011 Special

Edition of the BIG NTC!

Greetings Everyone,

It is my pleasure to pre-

sent to you our second Spe-

cial Edition Blacks In Gov-

ernment (BIG) National

Training Conference (NTC)

newsletter from Region XI.

Last year’s 2010 NTC edi-

tion went over so well that

we decided to do it again.

The purpose of the 2011

NTC newsletter is three-

fold: to allow Region XI

members to share their ex-

periences; highlight the

benefits received from the

NTC and the impact on their

careers, and why they be-

lieve conference attendance

is an investment that pays

dividends many times over

to their agencies who fund

their attendance.

Attendees at this year’s

conference had the opportu-

nity to choose from hosts of

lectures and panel discus-

sions. Many of the NTC

workshops provided

―Continuing Education

Units, (CEU’s).

Also, the NTC agency

forums addressed mission-

related initiatives and diver-

sity and the special

enhancement programs

(SEPs) provided a wealth of

information covering health,

legislation and state and lo-

cal government issues.

Lastly, this year the NTC

included participation from

the Graduate School USA

featuring ―Take Charge of

Your Career.‖

There were so many

training opportunities that I

cannot name them all in this

short message but the NTC

sessions were all designed to

help the attendees further

their personal and profes-

sional development in the

workplace as well as their

local communities.

In this newsletter, you

will read several articles that

capture the essence of the

annual NTC. For example,

you will find an article by

Dr. Patrick Wilson titled:

―Attending BIG National

Training Conferences: An

Open Letter.‖

Get your copy, read and

share it with your co-

workers, supervisors, man-

agers, friends and family

members.

Presidential Perspective

33rd Annual National Training Conference

Blacks In government

November 2011

Region Eleven Special Edition Newsletter

Special points of

interest:

USAID Inspiration

Youth Competition

FLAG Program

911 Memorial

Community Service

Inside this issue:

A Retiree’s View 4

What you missed! 6

FLAG Program 8

Mother Africa Speaks 13

What’s next for RXI 16

VP Jones 18

Mrs. Janice Scott 20

President

Region Eleven Council

“Focused and Leading

from the front”


J. David Reeves

NATIONAL BIG PRESIDENT

“This was the scene this year, just in case you missed it! The ambience was nice,

the message was clear, and the entire experience was overwhelming!”

BOSTON MASSACHUSETTES


Can you see us now?

A Retiree Stays in Touch at BIG’s National Delegates

Assembly and the 33rd National Training Conference (NTC)

I no longer work as a federal government employee, but attending the 2011 National Delegates

Assembly and the 33rd National Training Conference (NTC) kept me connected to BIG and fuelled my desire

for continuous learning.

The BIG National Delegates Assembly (NDA) is the organization’s annual business meeting. Chapter

delegates from around the United States from eleven regions converged on a 2-day session to vote on critical

matters of the corporation. These dealings included approving minutes, treasurer and audit reports, receiving

accomplishments from the National President and Chair of the Board of Directors (BOD) and attending re-

gional caucuses. I was a part of it all.

Prior to the opening of the official NDA, I attended a pre-caucus session. During the pre-caucus, I was

elected Caucus Chair for Region XI. This responsibility of being caucus chair served as an opportunity to en-

hance my leadership skills. I was in charge of a group of people who came together to accomplish specific

goals. I utilized parliamentary procedures to keep order, maintain decorum and control the agenda. This ex-

perience boosted my knowledge in business-related competencies and skill-set to manage productive meetings.

After pre-caucus and the NDA, the 33rd BIG Annual National Training Conference opened. This was the

―icing on the cake‖ for me. I immersed myself in the wide array of professional development, agency forums

and special enhancement programs. The NTC was a training environment designed for the employed and re-

tired, like me, who continues to seek knowledge, stay abreast of government initiatives, to help others and to

serve their communities.

From my perspective, if a member is a retiree and wants to stay plugged into BIG, make significant

impacts after retirement, the NDA and NTC will fill the bill. For example, I attended the Legislative Break-

fast and listened to congressional folks from Boston speak about how important it is to have a voice in legisla-

tion and issues impacting government. The budget battle in Congress with its impending cuts to social secu-

rity, healthcare, retirement pensions and no cost of living increases are matters that affect me as a retiree. I can

voice my opinion about these issues through BIG legislative initiatives and/or directly to my Congresswoman.

My experiences at the NDA and NTC were wonderful opportunities to stay connected to the BIG organization,

its members, network with others and continue to learn. Even travelling to Boston was a learning experience

because it was my first time there. I intend to stay united with BIG; there are a hosts of ways to do so, as a

volunteer, officer or committee chair. I definitely plan to attend future NDA’s and NTC’s. And being a retiree

has its rewards – you get a reduced NTC conference rate. How sweet is that?

Michele T. Peyton

President Region XI Council

NTC

PRESS CONFERENCE DRAWS

BOSTON MAYOR


The City of Boston’s top brass turned out on Monday, August 21st to welcome Blacks In Government during the 33rd National Training Conference (NTC). Mayor Thomas M. Menino extended greetings to the leadership and attendees during the Press Conference held in the John B. Hynes Convention Center. Gerald R. Reeves, BIG’s NTC Czar, facilitated the conference with special remarks given by David Groves, Chair, National Board of Directors and J. David Reeves, National President. City Councilors Charles C. Yancey and Ayanna Pressley, as well as James E. Rooney, Executive Director of the Hynes Convention Center also presented well wishes to the press conference participants. Several Boston city media outlets were on hand to capture the event announcing BIG’s four-day conference. After the press conference, Mayor Menino hosted a Mayor’s Reception for Blacks In Government at Darryl’s Cor-ner Kitchen in downtown Boston.

Rochelle Bryant National Communications Chairman

If you did not attend the 33rd Opening Ple-

nary Session, you missed a treat. Mr. John

Berry, Director, Office of Personnel Manage-

ment, thanked BIG on behalf of President

Barack Obama and Mr. Malik Walker. On Au-

gust 18, 2011, President Obama signed an Ex-

ecutive Order establishing a government-wide initiative to

promote diversity in the workplace. Berry stated, ―This is

the first comprehensive government-wide initiative and

ideas were from every part of the government, inside and

out. This could not have been done without the help of

President J. David Reeves.

Eighteen percent SES is not acceptable—we still

have mountains to climb. Make sure SES’ are training in

diversity and this element will be included in performance

standards. Work with lower level supervisors, so that eve-

ryone can and will be held accountable. This is a product

that we all will be proud of and show leading by example;

up, down and across all organizations.‖

The keynote address was given by the Reverend Dr. Jamal

Harris Bryant, Pastor of the Empowerment Temple, Balti-

more, Maryland.

After the Call to Order and Posting of Colors; the

Invocation was given by Minister Miniard Culpepper of

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church; and served as the Regional

Counsel, Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Miniard served said, ―BIG is no small thing and can make

a difference in the problems involving our youth of this

country. Think about our young folks who are locked up or

living in poverty. Poverty has no place in our time and age.

To get to where we are today, there are a few shoulders of

giants we stood upon, for instance, Martin Luther King

and Shirley Chisolm.

It is time to pray. J. David Reeves, BIG National

President, is standing on the shoulders of prayers.‖

Quentin Powell (Graduate Student, Longy School of Mu-

sic), rendered the National Anthem and the Negro National

Anthem; Sandra Glenn performed ―I Will Keep You in

Perfect Peace‖, and Mr. Julius Riddick sang ―Let Freedom

Ring.‖

David Groves, Chair, BIG Board of Directors, introduced

the Board of Directors, recognized the past board chairs

that were in the audience, and thanked all members of

BIG for attending the conference.

J. David Reeves, BIG National President, introduced

the National Executive Committee, and past presidents of

BIG. Also in attendance were representatives from FEW,

corporate sponsors, Indian Diversity Group, Latino

Brothers and Sisters, Muslim Brother and Sisters and

Federal Agency Pacific.

Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray, Commonwealth

of MA said, ―Boston is glad that BIG is here. The gap

between black and white students is closing; since all

students are ensured to receive a quality education. In

Boston, black and white students have closed the gap in

3rd, 7th, 8th, and 10th grades in English.

Chancellor Keith Motley, University of Massachusetts,

who is also the 8th Chancellor and 1st African American,

was excited to see so many brothers in suits!

He shared, ―years ago, this would not be a standard,

but I’m proud to be here today.‖ He is from Pittsburg and

he has seen growth in Boston. Years ago, in South Bos-

ton, his family was not allowed to live in houses there;

but today he says, ―I can choose which aunt’s house I am

going to eat. Boston has achieved ambition, hope and

character. If you get a chance, walk around this quasi

state that has unbroken ties and traditions, this heritage

city has embraced change and a way of life!‖ He believes

in this place, and he, is thankful for the shoulders that he

has stood.

Submitted By:

Sylvia Norris Region XI

What you missed at the NTC


On August 25, 2011, Blacks in Government (BIG) held its annual National Youth Pro-

gram Oratorical and Information Superhighway Competitions at its National Training Con-

ference in Boston, Massachusetts.

Jason Egolum and Faith Jackson, who attend Charles Flowers High School, located in

Springdale, Maryland, represented the FMS-BIG Chapter as well as Region XI, in the Ora-

torical Competitions. Students were required to give a 4-6 minute oration on the theme

―African American Males in America’s Schools – Endangered or Ignored?‖ Both students

presented outstanding orations. At the conclusion of the competitions, Jason Egolum, com-

peting in the 9th/10th grade level category, was awarded National 2nd place winner. Jason

received a beautiful 2nd place plaque and will be receiving a $600 monetary award.

The FMS-BIG Chapter is very proud of our two students’ accomplishments. They worked

hard and persevered in the preparation, writing, and delivery of their orations. The Chapter

looks forward to continuing to participate in BIG’s oratorical competitions.

Submitted by:

Dorothy Washington

FMS BIG Chapter Participates in

National Youth Program Competition


RXI Youth Program Oratorical Winners Faith Jackson, Jason Egolum, and Alleyah Miner, took

their talents to a very competitive National Training Conference

At the 2011 National Training Conference (NTC) in Boston, each Chapter

with a Junior or Senior FLAG Program established was afforded the opportunity to

have their FLAG student(s) participate in the FLAG Program Training Session,

which was held on Wednesday, August 24th. The FLAG Program is a wonderful

program coordinated by Dr. Doris Sartor and is designed around five critical areas

that will prepare our youth for full potential in the government arena. The five criti-

cal areas are: Mentorship; Financial Literacy and Leadership Training; Career Train-

ing and Education; Pre-professional Career Opportunities; and Scholarship Intern-

ships.

The FMS-BIG Chapter established our Junior FLAG Program in January.

Doris Ihejirika and Faith Jackson were selected to represent our Chapter at the Na-

tional FLAG Program Training. The Junior FLAG training sessions presented in-

cluded topics on (1) Ways to Pay for College, (2) A Healthy Lifestyle (3) FDIC

Money Smart Program and (4) Your Personal Image.

The FMS-BIG Chapter FLAG students expressed what a great learning ex-

perience they had and also had the opportunity to meet and network with many other

students from various BIG regions.

Committed and Dedicated Team Players

Submitted By :

Donna Harper FMS BIG

Future Leaders in America’s

Government Program

FLAG Students Showed up and Showed out!



Have you ever had to disabuse someone of the notion that the BIG National Training Conference

is an annual party event, a conference just for African Americans, or that it is solely an Equal Employ-

ment Opportunity Conference, or the most often used retort, with dwindling resources, your office can-

not subtract from the training budget to support this ―special emphasis‖ training? Once? Twice? A

dozen? Well, if so, you are not alone. It is safe to say that a large majority of employees who submit

requests to attend the annual BIG NTC are covertly or overtly faced with these subliminal mind sets of

their managers. But, anyone who has attended the conference knows, this is simply not the case.

Through the NTC, BIG provides OPM approved training, mentoring, and networking opportunities all

in one place to the benefit of members and nonmembers alike of any race. And, this ultimately benefits

the agency as well in its quest to have well-trained employees to accomplish its mission.

This being the case, I provide you with the following explanations and justifications to submit

with your future NTC requests. Perhaps this dual submission will enlighten and encourage your man-

ager to fully fund, partially fund, provide administrative leave, or a combination of the above, in sup-

porting your NTC training request.

- Make sure that the BIG NTC is included on your Individual Development Plan, and linked to your

relevant competencies,

Note that the Office of Personnel Management is a full participant at BIG’s national training confer-

ence and recognizes many of the NTC courses as comparable to OPM training.

- The cost of one NTC course is often three times less than a comparable OPM training course, a direct

budget saver in an atmosphere of dwindling resources,

- Remind them that although BIG is a special-emphasis organization; BIG NTC is not a special-

emphasis training conference. Everyone can and should attend,

- Note that many operating divisions have engaged in creative approaches to allow their employees to

receive high level training at the BIG NTC by fully funding, partially funding, granting administrative

leave or a combination of the above.

So, future BIG NTC participants, get ready, with renewed management support, to march up to the

NTC doors and enter prepared to receive a learning experience that will not only benefit you but also

your office. This is a win-win scenario if there ever was one.

Submitted by:

Dr. Patrick Wilson

Attending BIG National Training Conferences: An Open Letter

By Dr. Patrick Wilson, President

BIG NATIONAL TRAINING CONFERENCE

Easily justified and Money well spent!

As we get back into the swing of things and start thinking about how we will use the

valuable training information received at the BIG National Training Conference (NTC), we

should also consider how we will show those benefits to our agency leadership and colleagues

just as we do with other training that we take. I would like to personally suggest that each of

us consider preparing a trip report and similarly including this information in our individual

development plans to support attendance at future conferences.

My trip report will give my leadership a synopsis of the conference, my activities, lessons

learned from individual sessions, the benefits to my career growth, and how the training and

experience as a whole will help me contribute to the Agency’s mission. It will also illustrate

key linkages to agency priorities. For example, USAID’s Administrator, Rajiv Shah, recently

sent out an Agency Notice on key leadership qualities he believes are essential to our

Agency’s success. So, I’ll be using this as a guide for how I report on how the training and

experience at BIG NTC will allow me to grow in these areas:

Deliver Meaningful Results Demonstrate Inclusive Leadership Champion Our USAID Forward Reform Efforts Engage Broadly and Proactively Grow and Retain Our Talent

My goal in writing a trip report is basically to illustrate that the investment in sending staff to

the NTC goes beyond just benefiting individuals, but will also benefit the Agency and its pri-

orities. But, even if you don't write a trip report, I hope that you will also consider how you

will individually, either in words or by your actions, show the value you received from attend-

ing the BIG National Training Conference.

Submitted by:

Latrisha Swayzer, USAID


Honorable Jacque Ballard Talks “Future”


Hello 2011 NTC Presenters, By now I’m sure you all have arrived back home safely, missing hur-

ricane Irene as she left her impact on Boston on Saturday. I left Saturday morning and arrived back home in

Maryland just as she hit New York. So we passed each other, which I’m glad. Just a note to say ―thank you‖

for a job well done. Our conference was a huge success because of your participation. It was a lot of work

and several things didn’t go as planned but we all survived. I am just getting back to where I am well rested

and can talk about BIG again. I hope you had a great experience at the conference, because ―now‖ I can say

I did. Everyone has fully recovered and we’re ready to get back to work on completing the processes. When

times got rough, many of you gave me hugs, held my hand, put a hand on my shoulder or just gave me en-

couraging whispers. With that I knew I couldn't give up although there were times I wanted to. But I knew

that I had rose above many rough challenges before and I would survive these also. The Workshops Team is

differently one of a kind. They also had challenges as well and yet they prevailed. I will send you a feedback

evaluation form over the next few weeks. Your feedback is greatly appreciated and of course they will be

assessed as to lessons learned from the experience. Improved processes are always welcomed. There are

many follow up tasks to be done within the next few weeks. We are still inputting data regarding the certifi-

cations (CPEs, CLPs & CUEs) into the database.

As stated, we realized that we were being a little aggressive in implementing many of our new

processes and of course several were not executed because of unforeseen issues. We estimate there were

close to 3,000 attendees at this year’s conference, so that tells you how many certificates we have to issue

and there were 150 approved presenters. We are still finalizing our books. Many of you have asked for cop-

ies of your evaluation forms or at least a copy of the summary evaluation. Once completed and approved, I

will be glad to send to you since I’m not sure if I will have access to the actual evaluation forms again. That

won’t happen until after November’s close-out meeting. Additionally, some attendees have asked for your

handouts or contact information. I will formulate a process for that and discuss with you soon. Finally, as

one of our new initiatives we were trying to execute the ―Above and Beyond‖ Award for the presenters.

This award was offered by one of our Corporate Sponsors and it is intended to be awarded to 12 of our top

presenters as voted by the attendees of the workshops. However, the response was very low because either it

was not disseminated timely or it was misunderstood. To make up for that, we still plan to do it electroni-

cally, by sending out to all the attendees and have them to vote for their top presenters. Maybe now that eve-

ryone is back and has time to reflect on their training experience, this could be a good time for that.

We plan to make that happen very soon. At this time, I just wanted to thank you for all that you do for BIG

and will continue to do. I personally appreciated each one of you. For my new presenters thank you for tak-

ing a chance on BIG this year and for my returning presenters, thank you for your continued support. I am

already looking forward to next year and hope that you will join me in Detroit to go through it all over

again. If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me or email and remember ―Who loves you‖?

Stay tuned for more BIG Stuff!

Submitted by:

Hon. Jacque Ballard Blacks In Government, Chairman NTC Training Workshops

Lorraine Townsend, Region XI, Washington Navy Yard Chapter is currently the Workshops Facilitators Coordinator for the Blacks In Government (BIG) An-nual National Training Conference (NTC). Workshops offer training opportuni-ties to enhance the performance of government employees at all levels in a variety of careers and positions. As the Workshops Facilitator Coordinator I solicit vol-unteers prior to and/or onsite of the conference to provide professional assistance and support to the workshop presenters and customer service to the conference attendees. BIG refers to the workshop facilitator as the Presenter. All workshops are in need of a facilitator/presenter assistant to introduce the Presenter if asked; provide household rules especially in reference to the Continu-ing Professional Education (CPE) sign-in form and evaluations; disseminate workshop evaluation and sign-in form/s; collect evaluation forms and return to workshops; control the CPE sign-in form and return to Workshops Facilitator Co-ordinator or designee; and assist Presenter as needed such as disseminating ma-terial; Xeroxing; and always provide professional customer service to all present-ers and attendees. In addition, you will enhance your leadership skills through presentation and oral communication when you volunteer to be a Facilitator/Presenter Assistant at the NTC. Also, you can get in on the ground floor when you complete the Facilitator Registration form with workshop selections and provide to Facilitator Coordinator Lorraine Townsend for confirmation. If you are inter-ested serving as a Workshop Facilitator, contact me for details.

Lorraine Townsend BIG Washington Navy Yard Chapter

Volunteers Needed!


Mother Africa Opening for Business: The African Initiative Forum

A Blacks In Government (BIG) Event

Tuesday, 23, August, 2011 was not just a day, time, or moment, it was an event.

For the first time, BIG convened and extended her hand to our brothers and sisters on the African continent, at the National Training Conference

(NTC), held in Boston, Massachusetts, at the John B. Haynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center.

In doing so, BIG recognized the potential to demystify Africa, address technical barriers to U.S.-Africa entrepreneurial link-ups, expand U.S.-

Africa business partnerships, and most important, offer unique opportunities for BIG members to discover a new frontier of business. In short, the

African Initiative Forum provided alternative avenues to exploring and navigating their unique leadership skills and abilities.

The forum’s opening, African traditional, Islamic and Christian invocations, followed by the excellent and melodious Page Academy African

Drumming Ensemble moved the audience to great expectations. The audience was not disappointed.

Dr. Jemadari Kamara, keynote speaker, took the audience on a historical journey that everyone enjoyed and refused to disembark when he com-

pleted his outstanding presentation. Special Guest Speaker Boston City Councilor Charles C. Yancey opened eyes, minds and hearts with his per-

spectives of Boston’s past, present and future.

The first panel asked, ―What you need to know about Africa but were afraid to ask‖ and panelists Ms. Elizabeth Sichinga, Zambia Special Projects,

Ms. Emily Sikazwe, Zambia 60-60-60-projects, Ms. Angela Chester-Johnson, the Senegal Project Mr. Niyi Taiwo, Nigeria prospective, and Dr.

Joyce Hope Scott, Associate Professor, Wheelock College, and moderator Mr. E. Dovi Abbey, Founder/Owner, The Travel Village, answered with

cogent, informative, and motivational presentations that attacked the negative stigma surrounding going to or doing business in Africa. In so doing,

the panelist returned a question to the audience. Major U.S., Chinese, Indian corporations, rich tourists, and many other business/social travelers are

in Africa, why not you?

During the first panel presentations, the forum’s audience welcomed the appearance of National BIG President, J. David Reeves. President Reeves

took to the podium and lifted the spirits of the audience even higher than it already was. His words of encouragement, support, motivation for the

African Initiative was heartwarming, as well as inspirational. President Reeves, about to leave with applause still ringing throughout the ballroom,

was asked to stay for a special presentation. Whereupon, Ms. Emily Sikazwe, Director, Zambian Women for Change, presented to President Reeves

and BIG, a beautiful Zambian clothe, ―In support, recognition, and partnership with Zambians in promoting the principles of women rights, liberty,

and equality for all.‖

―Technical Barriers to U.S.-Africa Small/Medium Entrepreneurs Link-ups‖ panelists Ms. Nora Ehrlich, Assistant Director, Trade, Field Operations,

Boston Field Office, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Dr. Patrick Wilson, Administrator, BIG Africa Partnerships Secretariat (BAPS) and

moderator, Dr. Craig Fedchock, Animal Plant and Health Inspections Services (APHIS)/USDA, covered ―fears‖ to successful import/exports. The

questions: What is the impact of U.S. Regulations/Standards when exporting/importing between U.S. and African countries, as well as regionally

between African countries? And, why do importers/exporters fear the United States Customs & Border Protection, United States Department of

Agriculture or United States Food and Drug Administration when it comes to agricultural products? At the conclusion of this panel, the technical

barrier fears and questions were alleviated or answered by practical information provided on U.S. regulatory/standards do’s and don’ts for success-

ful import/export.

The final panel, ―Expanding U.S.-Africa Trade & Business Partnerships‖, with Mr. Bernardo Lourenco, Special Assistant to the Commercial Atta-

ché, Embassy of Angola, Ms. Emily Sikazwe, Zambia Women for Change, Ms. Elizabeth Sichinga, Zambia YWCA, Mr. Kern Tyler, Director of

the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Zambia and moderator Dr. Patrick Wilson brought the days program full circle. The question, ―Why Not Af-

rica?!‖ was answered via expert testimony by the panelists. It was explained that Mother Land Africa is preparing, fast becoming ―export ready‖ to

meet any/all regulations/standards, making the entrepreneurial opportunities for BIG NTC attendees available, and extending warm open hands

from Angola, Nigeria, Senegal and Zambia to all attendees seeking to partner, invest, buy, sell or simply vacation on the continent by bathing in the

inviting climate, enjoying the salubrious breezes and warm smiles of your African brothers and sisters.

P. Charles Wilson Administrator

BIG-Africa Partnerships Secretariat

President, Parklawn Chapter

Words of Thanks

A common saying in Ghana questions the wisdom of having a nut but no stone to crack it. Committee members of

the African Initiative Forum (Ms. Charlene Lee, Messrs. Palmer T. Doiley, Daniel Corria, Dovi Abbey, Niyi Taiwo

and Dr. Patrick Wilson) promoting the idea of an African Initiative had the nut and with stones from many, crack it,

they did! Of the many contributors, the African initiative Committee would like to particularly acknowledge and sin-

cerely thank:

-Blacks In Government, its board of directors, presidents, past and present, officers and all its members for

their steadfast commitment.

-The Embassies of Angola, Senegal, Nigeria and Zambia for their generous support.

-The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority and its staff for their much appreciated dedication to the

success of the BIG 2011 National Training Conference.

-Our distinguished guest speakers for their invaluable insights.

-Our panelists and moderators who have set aside their many duties to come and serve with us for the cause

of Africa.

-The MacDonald Show.

-Zambia Blog Talk Radio.

-All the attendees of the African Initiative Forum

Media Advisory: The Forum was live streamed on www.ustream.tv on Tuesday Aug. 23, 2011, from 11 a.m. to 5

p.m. EST. by MacDonald Longwe and Douglas Level, of the MacDonald Show.

http://www.ustream.tv

Thank You!


A huge thank you to the Communication and Public Relations Volunteer Team! Because of their commitment and dedication, we successfully published the “Daily Update” each day and effec-tively communicated not only with conferees, but those who were not able to attend the conference.

We were also able to capture the heart of the conference on film and video, so a BIG thank you goes out to the Photography Team! I salute all BIG National Training Conference committee volunteers and look forward to seeing each and every one of you next year in Detroit!

Janice Boss DeVonne Collins Stanley Cornelius Kenneth Cowan

Raymond Eldridge Damian Hill Sylvia Norris Loretta Johnson

Shirley Slaton James Somerville Glenn Smith Rohan Jones

Vern Howard Rafael Jackson Calvin Stevens Shirley Suggs

Minister Haile K. Lindsay Veronica Godfrey-Robinson Octavia Gorham-Greenhill

Elma Coleman-Williams Dr. Vera McKethan

Rochelle Bryant Chairman, National Communications and Public Relations

percentage of the leadership in the Federal

Government system, partly because we have

no clear plan of action, mentorship process,

or collective effort to assist us with the

growth process. It will be a challenge to the

leaders of region eleven to find the answers

and articulate them in a manner that allows

members the opportunity to end “lip service”

and advance professionally. Life is short and

change takes time, but one thing for sure, we

can and will get there, one BIG Member at a

time…

- They

Region Eleven is comprised of over 50

chapters around the Washington DC, Mary-

land, and Virginia areas. The region is com-

prised of over 250,000 Federal Employees liv-

ing or working in the region daily. It will be

interesting to see who steps up to lead the or-

ganization into 2012, and where the vision of

the organization will take us. During the De-

cember 2011 elections, members must choose a

candidate that is fully prepared to answer the

mail when the time comes.

A clear and measurable strategic plan

must be in place to show members where the

organization is going and how it can help our

members reach their objectives. In many or-

ganizations African Americans make up a small

Visionaries for Region Eleven “Who’s stepping up?”

AN INTERESTING YEAR

Michele Peyton (left) serves as President of the largest Blacks In Government Region in the country. 1st Vice-President Shirley Jones (right) has confirmed the nomination to run for the top office in the upcoming election. Both have been actively involved in the improvement and growth of Blacks In Government. All qualified members are given the opportunity to be considered for four positions in the upcoming election.

Who will take BIG to the next level?

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) joined several other agencies on the first day of the BIG National Training Conference (NTC) conducting forums for agency employ-ees and others interested in hearing more about the important work they do. And, according to one of its agency officials, USAID's work ranks #25 in importance for national security as determined by the National Security Council. The agency's work includes its "Feed the Future" initiative as well as efforts to reduce child mortality and mother to child transmission of HIV/AIDs and to build opportunities around the globe. The USAID agency forum, spearheaded by USAID BIG Chapter President Lawrence Williams and other Chapter members, included a motivational speech by Ambassador Barry Wells, who

now serves as the agency's Director of Civil Rights and Diversity. Mr. Williams also moderated an interesting panel discussion on the agency's programs and recruitment efforts. The panelists were Ambassador Wells, HR Deputy Assistant Administrator Deborah Kennedy-Iraheta, and Of-fice of Security Director Randy Streufert. In an inspirational address to the audience Ambassador Wells provided useful tips for developing a successful career path. The Ambassador's tips centered around being prepared and he used each letter of the word "prepare" to drive home his points. He encouraged atten-dees to choose work that they are passionate about, to be risk takers, and to be ethical. He said that employees should always have pride in the contributions they make to the

work and in so doing commit to doing their best. And, he said that employees should in fact be assertive. He noted that being assertive doesn't necessarily mean the same as being aggressive but rather it means controlling your own destiny and not giving yourself over to difficult times. Ambassador Wells also talked about the need for resilience. He said that employees must have the ability to bounce back because everybody has a bad day. Lastly, he concluded his points with a focus on excellence, noting that whatever you do be as good at it as you possibly can. HR Deputy Assistant Administrator Deborah Kennedy-Iraheta and Office of Security Di-rector Randy Streufert also provided important insights about the agency's programs and indi-vidually shared tips about their experiences at the agency. Ms. Kennedy-Iraheta spoke of the passion she developed for the work of the agency during her long tenure as a career civil ser-vant, having started at USAID right out of high school as a GS-3. And, Mr. Streufert, also a ca-reer civil servant, consistently pointed to the importance of mentoring to an employee's develop-ment and ultimate success. Agency forums are an integral part of the NTC and continued into the second day of the confer-

ence. Additional agencies conducting forums were: the Coast Guard, Departments of Agricul-ture, Commerce, Health and Human Services, Interior, Justice, Labor, Navy, and State, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency, Forest Service, General Services Administration, Mar-shals Service, and Veterans Administration.

Shirley A. Jones, Esq. RXIC 1st Vice President

Ambassador Barry Wells inspires

at USAID Agency Forum


There is plenty of strength in numbers!

“Employees should

always have pride in the

contributions they make

to work and commit to

doing their best”

done, and doing it right.

When BIG Headquarters

needed a good ―old school‖

leader to reach our objec-

tives at the national level,

Region Eleven offered up

Darryl Banks, our 2nd Vice

-President, to serve at the

national level.

The goal is to exe-

cute the plan of the Na-

tional President at the high-

est level. Darryl Banks took

on the challenge and was

elected to serve at the top

tier of the organization, a

place where he could make

a real difference in policy

and amongst the members

of our organization. When

a member was asked about

Back in the day, or

as some call it ―old

school,‖ it seems that peo-

ple would just be honest

with you about what the

expectations were and

what you needed to do to

get the job done.

It’s rare to find

people in with the values

from the old school, and

the emphasis is on ―being

liked‖ as some would say.

When you com-

pare the two types of lead-

ership styles, the best one

is the one that gets the job

down under any circum-

stance. It’s not about being

liked, but getting the job

the results, he stated ―I’ve

seen several people in this

position over the years and

it looks like we finally got

it right, Darryl get’s things

done.‖ Mr. Darryl Banks is

our newly elected National

2nd Vice President! Congrats

Darryl we know you will do

us proud!

Doing BIG things at the National level!

Mr. Daryl Banks “All about Business”


“I’ve seen several

people in this

position over the years

and it looks like we

finally got it right,

Darryl get’s things

done”

In loving memory of Mrs. Janice M. Scott


The Regional Council President, Michele Peyton, Dr. Hezekiah Braxton, President, BIG-Pentagon

Chapter and Annette Jennings, BIG-Pentagon attend the ceremony at the Pentagon Memorial on Septem-

ber 11, 2011 in remembrance of the 184 lost at the Pentagon and on American Airlines Flight 77 on Sep-

tember 11, 2001. Abraham Scott (pictured below 2nd from left) a life member of BIG, and his family

were among the special guests honored at the event. Janice Scott, a former BIG member at the BIG-

Pentagon Chapter, was a wife, sister, mother, and grandmother.

Navy and Political Officials pause for moments of reflection...

911

Memorial

“How to navigate through the EEO process without and Attorney”

Equal Employment Opportunity

Knowing the process is the no.1 key factor! At this year’s 2011 National

Training Conference, Ms. Melodee Brooks Stith, an electrifying instructor,

taught the importance of getting your facts, putting them in order, and writing

them down before navigating through the EEO process.

If you have a case, it must be filed within 45 days once you become aware

that a discriminatory act has been committed against you. To file, you must

contact an EEO Counselor or an EEO office, start a file, and document the date.

You must be clear, concise and specific when stating the issue. You must in-

vestigate—prepare, research, tell the complete story, and provide supporting

documentation.

As you prepare for the Agency’s rebuttal always remember that there

are opportunities for resolution prior to investigation and after. During the

hearing process and Final Decision, remember the burdens of proof are on you!

You have a right to representation at any time during the process, and if the fi-

nal decision is not favorable, you have a right to appeal.

If you want a ―win-win‖ situation in your resolution process, visit classes,

such as the EEO classes that were presented at the 2011 National Training Con-

ference. And, don’t stop there, continue to seek information through BIG.

Submitted by:

Octavia Gorham-Greenhill Energy Chapter

BIG Region XI


Community Service Outreach &

Sharpe Health School Join Forces

Actively Engaged Outreach Committee!


The Sharpe Health School is one of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s partner schools. The school is

one of the Nation’s public schools with a special education program that provide instructional and therapeutic

services for students from ages 3 through 21 with physical disabilities and/or multiple disabilities from all Wards

of the District of Columbia.

On August 20, 2011 Region XI Blacks In Government Community Service and Outreach

Committee members joined Muriel Bowers, Council Member for Ward 4, Kamili Anderson State

Board of Education Representative for Ward 4, employees from the U. S. Department of the Inte-

rior, Council Member Bowers staff members, and teachers from Sharpe Health School for the 2011

DC Public Schools Annual Beautification Day event at Sharpe Health School. Savetria Francis is

the school principal. Volunteers assisted with planting and weeding the gardens. Brenda Woods,

Program Manager Educational Partnerships Program U.S. Department of the Interior served as the

Site Manager for the event. Ms. Woods serves on the Region XI Blacks In Government Community

Service and Outreach Committee and is also an officer with the Department of the Interior Blacks

In Government Chapter. The Region XI Blacks In Government Community Service and Outreach

Committee members participated in the event included Rosmary Hill Committee Chair, Claudia

Silvers and Diane Himes.

Department of the Interior – BIG Chap-

ter hosted its 3rd Town Hall Forum, August

23, 2011, Boston, MA. Immediately fol-

lowing the U.S. Department of the Interior

agency forum at the NTC, Boston MA, the

DOI-BIG Chapter followed with its 3rd

Town Hall Forum opened to all DOI em-

ployees. Prior to hosting this important

Forum, DOI-BIG hosted a

Juneteenth Event: ―State of Af-

rican Americans in the U.S. De-

partment of the Interior‖, Sid-

ney Yates Auditorium. Con-

gressman Danny K. Davis, Rev-

erend Ronald V. Myers, M.D.,

and BIG leaders addressed the

audience.

In preparation of the Fo-

rum, DOI-BIG Chapter issued a

department wide invitation to all

employees to participate in this historic

event. The purpose of the Town Hall was

to give DOI’s African American employ-

ees an opportunity to come together and

communicate on how we can collectively

overcome the challenges of: promotions,

recruitment, retention, career development,

detail assignments, selection for SES slots

and other leadership training programs.

Participants exchanged ideas, gathered data

and provided actions to address DOI’s cur-

rent vision and goals for diversity. DOI-

BIG Chapter recognizes that hosting a

Town Hall Forum at the NTC is the best

time of year.

On average, African Americans attend the NTC

more so collectively compared to other similar

conferences.

As a result, DOI-BIG capitalized on the

opportunity to host their Forum for the last three

years. The Town Hall offers DOI employees an

enormous opportunity to address Secretary’s

Kenneth Salazar’s vision for diversity and to

examine collectively how we need

to move the agenda forward. DOI-

BIG Chapter believes that meeting

with employees national wide on

common issues helps build a strong

foundation for addressing critical

issues impacting DOI’s Black em-

ployees.

Interior continues to lag all Ex-

ecutive Branches in the hiring and

promotion of African Americans.

On June 10, 2011, the OPM Federal

Equal Opportunity Recruitment Program Report

for FY10 was released to Congress showed the

Black workforce at Interior 5.6% compared to

5.7% the year before.

Overall, the Forum resulted in proactive

steps the Chapter will take in working with Sec-

retary Salazar’s Administration and Congress.

The Chapter plans to host its 4th Town Hall Fo-

rum at the NTC, Detroit, Michigan. Imagine,

next year if BIG held a national Town Hall Fo-

rum, Detroit, Michigan, ending with a powerful

platform for Congress and the White House to

address, what a national statement we could

make.

Submitted by

Kim Lambert DOI Chapter President

Department of Interior host 3rd

Town Hall Forum


Team 1 Team 2 Team 3

Coach, Ms. Peggy Wilson Coach M. Jonny Barideaux Coach Ms. Maxella Thomas

Ms. Donna Cobbah – V Ms. Wendy Dolberry—II Ms. Halemia Jones—IX

Ms. Mary Dunn – XI Mr. Johnnie Duggans—IV Ms. Shereice Hunter—II

Mr. Charles (CJ) Garris – XI Ms. Debrah Ford—XI Mr. Columbus Johnson-IX

Ms. Denise A. McRae-Nimmons – II Ms. Joann Knox—IX Ms. Shirley Suggs—XI

Ms. Sylvia Norris – XI Ms. Terri A. Lewis—VI Ms. Lawanda Young—XI

Ms. Nichelle Rogers – VIII Ms. Marcia Pitt-Ridgill—III

Ms. Dale E, Scott - III Ms. Beverly Spencer—IX

Ms. Alma Garlington

Senior Coach

Dr. Vera McKethan Dr. Doris Sartor National Program and Planning Committee Immediate Past DYLA Coordinator, Presiding

Ms. Darlene H. Young Presiding

Immediate Past National BIG President

DYLA Coordinator & Trailblazer

Congratulations

Darlene H. Young 2011 Leadership Academy Graduates!


Darlene Young

Leadership Academy


A graduates viewpoint!

=======================================================================================

I expected and anticipated a great learning experience from the Darlene Young Leadership Academy

(DYLA). My expectations were met, and in some areas, my expectations were exceeded. My experience

equaled my level of activity and effort. This eight month leadership program is results driven. The effort ex-

erted dictates the output. There were times when I was unsure if I would complete the program, however, the

doubt subsided as I continued my required learning activities.

Program Requirements

Leadership Development Plan Program Impact Papers

Shadowing Assignment 30 Day Development Assignment

Executive Interviews True Colors

Reading/Writing Assignments Team Projects

I enjoyed two wonderful shadowing assignments at my government agency with 1) the Managing Di-

rector and 2) the Chief, Financial Officer. Both of these agency officials were deliberate in my learning experi-

ence. I was fully aware of our scheduled meetings and the personal time I would spend with each. The per-

sonal time spent with each was especially meaningful to me because we were able to talk in detail about spe-

cific work and/or career-related issues.

The True Colors Personality Assessment provides insights about yourself and others. This knowledge

can be a lifelong tool. The four personality colors are: Orange-Adventurous, Gold-Responsible, Blue-

Harmonious, and Green-Curious. My dominant colors are green and orange with introverted tendencies. This

information is helpful when I act as a risk-taker or in a reserve manner.

The DYLA leadership program is a partnership between BIG National and the Graduate School.

Therefore, all work assignments are reviewed by your DYLA coach and the Graduate School staff. This pro-

gram provides a supportive environment where you learn, develop and strengthen skills of your choosing. The

Darlene Young Leadership Academy is a worthwhile adventure!

Shirley S. Suggs President, FCC Benjamin Hooks Chapter

Region XI, Chair, Legislative Committee

“oh no, I am not selling anymore

shirts, you had plenty of time...how do you

like my hair?”

“Who’s missing their form 4?” I gotta go visit

that chapter!”

Regional Fun!


Gerald Reed, looks over documents at the Delegates Assembly

Fundraiser Chairman Marion Allen plans here next event

Blacks In Government &

Combined Federal Campaign

The 2011 Combined Federal Campaign of the National Capital Area (CFCNCA) officially kicked off its campaign on September 21, 2011. The theme of the 2011 campaign is “Celebrating 50 Years of Caring, Serving and Giving.” Region XI Council has been a member of the campaign since 2008. Our CFC code is 159123. Again we ask that you consider donating to Re-gion XI Council this year. Region XI Council has been caring, serving and giving in a BIG way. We use CFC funding for our Youth Program, Oratorical contest and information Superhighway Student Competition (ISSC); training and EEO resources.

We can be found on page 25 in the 2011 Catalog of Caring. Seek us out and

when your CFC key worker comes around, fill out your form with 159123. I

thank you in advance.

View Link! http://bigrxi.org/data/listserve/LS294102242.pdf

Michele Peyton

President, Region Eleven Council


http://bigrxi.org/data/listserve/LS294102242.pdf

our organizational year is

coming to a close, I would like

to thank those that have taken

the step forward, one more

time, to be members of our

Communications Committee.

The fact that we are

spread out across the region,

makes communications chal-

lenging, but you found a way

to help us get through the

tough times and reach our

objectives. Blacks In Govern-

ment is a better place to serve

because of you! To our mem-

bers, we have a lot of work left

to do, and there are other pro-

fessionals out there looking for

There are many organizations in

our region, that are determined to

“make a difference” in their respec-

tive areas of expertise. Blacks In

Government has continually worked

to improve the lives of our customers

and our members. Sure, we’ve gone

through some tough times, but so has

everyone else.

The goal of the Communications

Committee was to open the lines of

communications in our region, publi-

cize our events and accomplishments,

and keep the lines of communications

open for our members. Collectively,

we have found away to keep our

members engaged and aware of the

events within the Region. Although

organizations (like BIG) to

serve as their advocate. You all

have been fantastic this year!

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Billy J. Hill RXI Communications Chair

Thanks

Region eleven!

RXI Communications Committee


Billy J. Hill, MBA, MPA, MS Ed, MS OM

Communications Chairman

Sylvia Norris Pat Wilson Wainie Youn Janice Boss Gerald Kyler Stanley Cornelius Calvin Kearns Joseph Somerville Raymond Eldridge Paula E. Davis

33rd annual national training conference region eleven ...a retiree stays in touch at big’s...

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