Standing L-R: Carolyn H. Bell, MarRonde' Lotson, Kathey Porter, Assistant City Manager Rochelle Small-Toney, Major Terry Enoch, Carl Palmer; Seated L-R: Alderman Van Johnson, Captain Kimberly Middleton, Israel G. Small, Col. McArthur Holmes. In 2007, several local public employees came together and established a local chapter of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators. NFBPA was founded in 1983 and serves as a support organization for the growing number of Black public managers and administrators throughout the country. The primary mission is to increase the number of African- Americans and minorities appointed to executive positions in state and local government agencies; to enhance the capacity of currently positioned minorities in public service; and to groom younger, emerging administrators for the challenges of executive management positions in the future.

The local chapter, recognized as the fastest growing chapter in 2007, has more than 70 members dedicated to furthering the mission and goals of NFBPA. Nationally, NFBPA has over 2,600 individuals representing more than 350 cities and counties, in 40 states. Together NFBPA members manage over $60 billion in public funds and are responsible for making critical product and service purchasing decisions.

Chapter president, Alderman Van Johnson said, "Savannah has a number of African Americans holding leadership positions in government, education, public safety and more. The City was well positioned to begin this chapter to support those leaders and to nurture future leaders entering the marketplace from area colleges and universities. We welcome the support of the community as this organization continues to grow. "

For more information contact Margaret Williams at 631-0517.