Episode 98: Belinda McEachern M. Ed.

“I do not want you to be impressed by me, I want you to be blessed by me” is Belinda McEachern’s personal motto. And it’s a motto that she’s put to good use both professionally and personally, within all walks of life. Originally from Greenwood SC, Belinda now lives in Blythewood SC (suburb of Columbia) with her husband Danny (of 20 years) and her two children (Aaron – age 16 & Camille –age 12). Belinda is truly an individual that epitomizes the essence of selfless leadership and the true meaning of a leader. She possesses outstanding leadership traits (e.g., confidence, commitment, communication, and dedication that all persons seek and need in the 21st century). Belinda has had the privilege of holding a variety of leadership roles, both personally and professionally. Moreover, Belinda has had a stellar career in the fields of Education Leadership, Technology, Cyber Security, and Volunteerism. Currently, Belinda is the Chapter President for one of the “BIT” Blacks In Technology Foundations” newest Chapters: “Blacks In Technology Columbia!” Blacks In Technology Columbia is the official Chapter for the Metro Columbia, SC region of the dynamic, growing, vibrant Blacks In Technology 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization. The purpose of this group is to network, learn best industry practices, and to advance Information Technology careers. The goal and mission is to “stomp the divide” between Black Tech workers and to fundamentally influence and effect change on an industry that has historically not sought parity with respect to Black workers. The intent of BIT Columbia is to level the playing field through training, education, networking, and mentorship with the support of allies, partners, sponsors, and most importantly their global members! Belinda has impressive academic and professional credentials. She holds a Master of Education from Columbia College and a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the historical SC HBCU, Benedict College. Belinda has recently completed academic studies at the Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University, with a concentration in Cybersecurity and continuing her Doctorate (EDD. ET) program with a concentration in Educational Leadership & Educational Technology. Her ethical values and professionalism are above reproach. Belinda exemplifies public service through her many volunteer endeavors, alongside Blacks In Technology Columbia. Her commitment to public service is manifested in her numerous volunteer and membership efforts. Belinda holds memberships with The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc., Columbia (SC) Chapter, whose mission is to advocate on behalf of black women and girls to promote leadership development and gender equity in the areas of health, education and economic empowerment; SC SkillsUSA Executive Board (currently Vice Chair): serving thousands of high school, college and middle school career and technical students and professional members enrolled in training programs in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including health occupations.; Grow with Google Business Partner; NIST – NICE (National Initiative For Cybersecurity Education) Apprenticeship Subgroup/ Working Group; Career & Technology Education (CTE) Advisory Council for SC School District Five of Lexington and Richland Counties; “BIC”- Blacks in Cybersecurity; SANS Women in Cybersecurity; SC Associationof School Administrators (SCASA); Women of Distinction Toastmasters (Toastmasters International); SC Codes (S.C. Department of Commerce’s Office of Innovation); mediaspace.global (The independent global social network for professionals in media, marketing, technology and regulation); siberX (Curating a global community of cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts); “AYA” – Ally of the Year Awards 2021 (Judge/ Selection Committie), and Women’s Cyberjutsu; The Anti-Human Trafficking Alliance (Lexington, SC); Carolina Alliance for Te...