WESTERN PROVINCE
GILBERT D. BROWN
professionals, we have a responsibil- ity to be involved in communities by serving as mentors, counselors, pro- viding scholarship opportunities and encouraging young folks to pursue careers in technical fields and the STEM disciplines. Journal: What motto do you live by? Brown: I am driven by the words of Marianne Williamson - "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are pow- erful beyond measure." Journal: What do you like most about your job? Brown: I am amazed how rapidly technology advanced in the telecom- munications industry. When I began my career, the focus was on expand- ing land lines carried over copper wire. Wireless was in its infancy, and focused on voice. Today its all about wireless data, cloud computing and services, and the Internet-of-Things. Every day was exciting as we helped companies adapt to emerging technology and integrate it into their business processes. Journal: How has Kappa Alpha Psi ® played a role in your profes- sional or educational career? Brown: I will forever be indebted to Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. The fraternity’s purpose resonated with me from day one. Achievement in all fields of human endeavor is not just a creed, it is a lifestyle. I live by the principle “Excellence is the Only Acceptable Standard.” Journal: How do you administer the role as Province Polemarch? Brown: I follow the principle of Training for Leadership. Brothers invested their time energy in me by exposing me to leadership opportu-
I ensured the board was up to date on the latest technology and industry trends. Journal: Are you involved in trade organizations related to your profes- sion? Brown: I was a member of the Al- liance of Black Telecommunication Workers, as well CITIES (Com- munity Involvement Teams in Every Sector). Both organizations focused on professional development, men- toring, and networking among Afri- can American telecommunications professionals as well as community service. Journal: Given the organizations in which you have served, what respon- sibility do you think a member of your profession has to be involved in the community?
Journal: What is your profession?
Brown: I am a sales and marketing professional. Retired after 27 years in the telecommunications indus- try. Prior to telecommunications, I worked in consumer products and industrial sales. Journal: What were you involved in campus service, athletics or commu- nity wise, while in college? Brown: I was a member of the Board of Directors of the Frederick Douglas Association (Black Student Association), as well as a Board Member for the Penn State Jazz Club. Journal: How do you use your professional skills to benefit the community? Brown: I have served on boards and advisory councils. In that capacity
Brown: As telecommunication
102 | SUMMER 2017 THE JOURNAL
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