Reflections on BSCP’s 25th Annual Evening of Hope

In a world where 95% of companies or initiatives fail to last a few years,?an organization that lasts several decades requires stand-out leadership, a vital mission and vision, and a culture that bodes excellence. The Biomedical Science Careers Program (BSCP) (BSCP) embodies all the characteristics of a phenomenal organization. BSCP is led by a transformative leader, Joan Reede , Dean for Diversity and Community Partnership at Harvard Medical School , who inspires by charting the course of excellence. The organization provides exposure to mentors, resources, and opportunities to underprivileged young adults in the Greater Boston community to pursue careers in medicine, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program’s power comes from the fact that minority students get to see leaders that look like them and share similar stories in upbringing – a motivational catalyst for many amid life’s inequities and adversities.

I, too, am a byproduct of BSCP. I’ve been a member of BSCP since April 2004 as a high school junior, where, for the first time, I encountered many leaders in Medicine and STEM who understood the power of an inclusive collaboration driving innovation in the Boston science hubs. My first BSCP meeting was electric, leaving me desiring more for myself and my family. BSCP ingrained in its participants that education and skills building are our best means to receive a seat at the table. The program hosts events and workshops year-round, and I did my best to attend when possible. The program is also a springboard to love stories- I met my wife, Lyndia M. , at BSCP in 2016. BSCP remains a place to meet those with similar values and life goals as you.

BSCP was a Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) accelerator before the concept became popular. The program demonstrated to the world’s best STEM companies the power of inviting young minorities to the dance early. Consequently, the program is supported by sponsors such as Vertex Pharmaceuticals , Cytiva – a Danaher Corporation , and Takeda Pharmaceutical, all stand-out organizations that know that to indeed receive, one must also give. Moreover, I am enthralled that at BSCP 25th Evening of Hope, I was able to add the name of my startup, Quality Means Business , to the list of patrons who support the program. BSCP exposed me to the idea that no dream is too big, so have hope, which translates to me setting arduous goals, having a solid work ethic, and walking by faith. The evening is still inspirational for me. I met and will mentor promising students such as J'Nye S. and transformative leaders in the Greater Boston Community at this year’s Evening of Hope. In addition, I met J. Keith Motley, Ph.D. , 2022 Hope Award Recipient and an inspiration to all of us. The doors of BSCP welcome all, so from the suburbs to the inner city, come and stand on the shoulder of giants to fuel your dreams!