Nelson has been instrumental in establishing the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center computer lab and implementing science and technology programs such as Try Science in Phyllis Wheatley’s Academic Achievement Program, basic computer use and internet orientation & safety, and has helped get refurbished computers into the hands of dozens of families served at the Center.

He is employed at the University of Minnesota as a Program Supervisor for the Digital Divide Initiative and is actively involved with the new University of Minnesota UROC center. Nelson’s outstanding service to youth in North Minneapolis and his dedication to bridging the digital divide has earned him the honor of this recognition.

Lockheed Martin Corporation, The Council of the Engineering Deans of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and US Black Engineer & Information Technology Magazine partner to make the recognition and the BEYA STEM Global Competitiveness Conference possible.

Celebrating 84 years of helping children and families succeed, Phyllis Wheatley Community Center is one of the oldest social service agencies in Minnesota to continuously deliver human and social services to diverse communities.  Phyllis Wheatley’s mission is to provide comprehensive quality programs in life-long learning, child development and family support for the diverse Greater Minneapolis community.  Phyllis Wheatley Community Center is a United Way community partner, a member of Metropolitan Alliance of Connected Communities (MACC), and United Neighborhood Centers of America, Inc. (UNCA). It was established in 1924 as one of the original settlement houses in the area.

Ken Nelson and Barbara Milon, Executive Director of Phyllis Wheatley Community Center,  at the BEYA STEM Global Competitiveness Conference.

Ken Nelson receives award from Tyrone Taborn, CEO of Career Communications Group Inc. in Baltimore, MD.