Join the conversation on Yammer!

A new career brings many emotions: excitement, anticipation, hope, and for some, anxiety. A world of possibilities awaits, but how does an employee navigate their journey successfully? For State Farm Technology Executive DeWayne Griffin, the answer lies in two words: professional development.

“My State Farm journey began with an internship in 2000 before starting full-time in 2001. I was young, wide-eyed and determined. I let my leadership aspirations be known, which led to my involvement in the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF),” said DeWayne. “To this day, I attribute much of my success to this incredible organization.”

Formed in 1996, ITSMF increases the representation of black professionals at senior levels in technology to impact organizational innovation and growth. State Farm has a long history with ITSMF, with a goal to reach, teach and cultivate aspiring technology professionals.

“ITSMF began with a conversation between tech execs who found only 3 percent of information technology management roles were being held by black professionals,” DeWayne explained. “The moment I walked into my first ITSMF Management Academy meeting, I was shocked. For the first time in my life, the room was filled with technology professionals who looked like me.”

Over the span of a decade, 24 State Farm leaders have graduated from ITSMF leadership academies. From 2019-2020, 80 State Farm IT professionals embraced the opportunity to take onsite ITSMF classes at State Farm corporate facilities.

“When the company learned about this organization, it recognized the need to increase representation of black professionals at all levels in IT and got involved,” said State Farm Technology Director Collette Fung. “For me, ITSMF was an exhale moment. I saw people at levels I wanted to be and it affirmed I can get there too.”

A member of ITSMF, Collette is also a founding member of the ITSMF EMERGE Academy. The competitive development experience specifically designed for women of color supports the progression of authentic, knowledgeable and conscious technology leaders. In 2020, Yolanda Brumfield and Sharon C Johnson Lake of State Farm graduated from the EMERGE Academy. Additionally, State Farm employees Kentrica Coleman and Jhay Davis are 2020 ITSMF Management Academy graduates - a rigorous program designed to sharpen IT leadership skills and competencies.

The Journey Continues:

In July 2020, State Farm received national recognition when it was named ITSMF Partner of the Year for its ongoing commitment to support employee professional development. Retired State Farm Executive Duane Farrington received the Digital Innovator Award for championing creative tech solutions. And, out of an esteemed group of 200 candidates, DeWayne Griffin was named ITSMF Member of the Year, a coveted award honoring his steadfast mentorship, advocacy and leadership.

“I’m humbled by this honor,” said DeWayne. “But my story doesn’t stop here. Because of ITSMF relationships, educational programs and symposiums, I’m continuing to grow as a leader. At State Farm I’m applying the strategies I learn to invest in our technology, help our customers and prepare for what’s to come.”

“I’m thankful to work for an organization that supports professional development opportunities,” added Collette. “When State Farm invests in me, I’m better for them. On this adventure called life, remember you’re in control of your development. Reach out, let your goals be known, work hard for what you want and lift others up. Your dreams will be realized.”

To learn more about State Farm or its IT career opportunities, visit: https://www.statefarm.com/careers

Hear From the Graduates:

“Through EMERGE I have been equipped with the tools I needed to be bold and take more chances, strategize to win and take my seat at the table, use my voice to invoke change and influence, and pay it forward. The journey over the last year has laid the foundation for me to be comfortable leaning into my energy, that safe space where I can experience life, and choose what defines me and embrace each moment. I’ve learned that I am worthy of the life I am wishing for.”

– Sharon C Johnson Lake, State Farm ITSMF EMERGE Academy graduate

“My experience with the ITSMF Management academy has been transformative. As I reflect over the past year, I have learned more about myself, my leadership style and my strengths. I will continue to leverage the techniques I learned to provide greater impact to the organization and the teams I lead.”

– Kentrica Coleman, State Farm ITSMF Management Academy graduate

“Through EMERGE, I experienced a shift enabling the most growth in my area of strengths! As a transformational leader, I’ve learned to embrace the power of vulnerability and how to effectively manage my energy so I’m able to give my best.”

– Yolanda Brumfield, State Farm ITSMF EMERGE Academy graduate

“The opportunity to learn alongside professionals from other Fortune 50 companies provided a valuable and expanded perspective into being a leader. Providing a developmental experience that not only focused on academics but also an enhanced sense of self opened the door to helping me become a more balanced leader.”

– Jhay Davis, State Farm ITSMF Management Academy graduate

“My State Farm journey began with an internship in 2000 before starting full-time in 2001. I was young, wide-eyed and determined. I let my leadership aspirations be known, which led to my involvement in the Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF),” said DeWayne. “To this day, I attribute much of my success to this incredible organization.”

Formed in 1996, ITSMF increases the representation of black professionals at senior levels in technology to impact organizational innovation and growth. State Farm has a long history with ITSMF, with a goal to reach, teach and cultivate aspiring technology professionals.

“ITSMF began with a conversation between tech execs who found only 3 percent of information technology management roles were being held by black professionals,” DeWayne explained. “The moment I walked into my first ITSMF Management Academy meeting, I was shocked. For the first time in my life, the room was filled with technology professionals who looked like me.”

Over the span of a decade, 24 State Farm leaders have graduated from ITSMF leadership academies. From 2019-2020, 80 State Farm IT professionals embraced the opportunity to take onsite ITSMF classes at State Farm corporate facilities.

“When the company learned about this organization, it recognized the need to increase representation of black professionals at all levels in IT and got involved,” said State Farm Technology Director Collette Fung. “For me, ITSMF was an exhale moment. I saw people at levels I wanted to be and it affirmed I can get there too.”

A member of ITSMF, Collette is also a founding member of the ITSMF EMERGE Academy. The competitive development experience specifically designed for women of color supports the progression of authentic, knowledgeable and conscious technology leaders. In 2020, Yolanda Brumfield and Sharon C Johnson Lake of State Farm graduated from the EMERGE Academy. Additionally, State Farm employees Kentrica Coleman and Jhay Davis are 2020 ITSMF Management Academy graduates - a rigorous program designed to sharpen IT leadership skills and competencies.

The Journey Continues:

In July 2020, State Farm received national recognition when it was named ITSMF Partner of the Year for its ongoing commitment to support employee professional development. Retired State Farm Executive Duane Farrington received the Digital Innovator Award for championing creative tech solutions. And, out of an esteemed group of 200 candidates, DeWayne Griffin was named ITSMF Member of the Year, a coveted award honoring his steadfast mentorship, advocacy and leadership.

“I’m humbled by this honor,” said DeWayne. “But my story doesn’t stop here. Because of ITSMF relationships, educational programs and symposiums, I’m continuing to grow as a leader. At State Farm I’m applying the strategies I learn to invest in our technology, help our customers and prepare for what’s to come.”

“I’m thankful to work for an organization that supports professional development opportunities,” added Collette. “When State Farm invests in me, I’m better for them. On this adventure called life, remember you’re in control of your development. Reach out, let your goals be known, work hard for what you want and lift others up. Your dreams will be realized.”

To learn more about State Farm or its IT career opportunities, visit: https://www.statefarm.com/careers

Hear From the Graduates:

“Through EMERGE I have been equipped with the tools I needed to be bold and take more chances, strategize to win and take my seat at the table, use my voice to invoke change and influence, and pay it forward. The journey over the last year has laid the foundation for me to be comfortable leaning into my energy, that safe space where I can experience life, and choose what defines me and embrace each moment. I’ve learned that I am worthy of the life I am wishing for.”

– Sharon C Johnson Lake, State Farm ITSMF EMERGE Academy graduate

“My experience with the ITSMF Management academy has been transformative. As I reflect over the past year, I have learned more about myself, my leadership style and my strengths. I will continue to leverage the techniques I learned to provide greater impact to the organization and the teams I lead.”

– Kentrica Coleman, State Farm ITSMF Management Academy graduate

“Through EMERGE, I experienced a shift enabling the most growth in my area of strengths! As a transformational leader, I’ve learned to embrace the power of vulnerability and how to effectively manage my energy so I’m able to give my best.”

– Yolanda Brumfield, State Farm ITSMF EMERGE Academy graduate

“The opportunity to learn alongside professionals from other Fortune 50 companies provided a valuable and expanded perspective into being a leader. Providing a developmental experience that not only focused on academics but also an enhanced sense of self opened the door to helping me become a more balanced leader.”

– Jhay Davis, State Farm ITSMF Management Academy graduate

She had always done well in school, so her academic performance would not be what prevented her from being a first-generation college student. Rather, Karina’s hurdles would be finding help to fund her education, getting placed in the best school possible while balancing being a young wife and mother.

Then came what Karina describes as a “random email” one day while an undergraduate student at San Diego State University. It was an informational message from MANA de San Diego, a Latina leadership program in Karina’s hometown. MANA awards $40,000 to $50,000 annually in financial support to students seeking an associate’s degree through doctoral candidates.

“I decided to apply,” Karina says. “I initially submitted my application in hopes of getting funding help for college. It was the only scholarship application I submitted that required an in-person interview. And from that first interview, I felt an immediate connection with MANA de San Diego.”

The bond formed in that interview continued to grow. Karina began attending events the organization sponsored, volunteered and networked with other professionals and companies that support MANA de San Diego.

Karina, 28, was one of the first women to go through MANA de San Diego’s Latina Success Leadership Program of which State Farm^® is a supporter. Karina went graduate school 2,300 miles away at the University of Michigan where she earned a master’s of science in chemistry.

Upon her return home to San Diego, Karina was hired as a scientist at General Atomics. She is the only Latina on her team. Karina credits MANA with giving her the confidence to pursue college, and more uniquely, a male-dominated career.

Rosa María Hernández is director of development and member services at MANA. She came to work for the organization after 10 years in academia and after going through the MANA volunteer-based program herself.

“It’s been great to see how it’s evolved and how it’s impacted so many in such positive ways as it has Karina,” says Rosa. “It gives them the tools, advocacy and strength for them to rise up and the strength to take a chance.”

Karina’s quick success in the company and leadership skills she honed through MANA led to a promotion of two levels. She still calls her mentor once a week.

“I was surrounded by strong, successful women mentors through MANA,” says Karina. “It was real leadership training, and I knew if they could be successful, I could, too.”

And, of course, Karina’s family beams with pride in her accomplishments.

“They are proud and see me as successful,” says Karina. “And there is so much more that I want to do to continue to succeed. That’s why my MANA connections are still so important; they keep shooting for my goals and where I want to be.”

Says Rosa, “I describe MANA as an organization that creates cyclical change. Once you train and encourage one person in the family, you can change the whole family. Karina is a great example of that.”

Davidds is the founder and CEO of the Latina Global Executive Leadership and Entrepreneur Institute (LGELP) at University of Southern California. It is a unique leadership training that addresses the sociocultural realities of today's emerging corporate Latina women leaders and helps them reach their full potential.

Offered by the Latina Leadership Institute (LLI), the LGELP is unlike other leadership development programs. It is taught by faculty scholars and practitioners with real-world insights to experiences professional Latinas face in the workplace

Dr. Davidds inspires women across the globe to take control of their lives, education and their dreams. These accomplishments and her continued work empowering women is why Davidds was honored on the Together stage as LA’s “Dream Achiever.”

“A ‘Dream Achiever’ is a woman who rejected the status quo and refocused her life to reflect her passion,” shared Michelle Hare from State Farm Marketing. “She is a woman who takes chances, follows her heart and believes in empowering others.”

Together is a six-city tour convening women across generations and backgrounds for six nights of storytelling focused on creating community, well-being, purpose and action. State Farm is a primary sponsor of the tour and will honor a Dream Achiever at each stop along the Together tour.

“The Together tour is about bringing women together to celebrate love, build community and take action. Through storytelling, Together aims to help people feel less alone in their lives,” said Jennifer Rudolph Walsh, who leads WME’s Literary Division and is producing the tour. “Our work with State Farm to honor Dream Achievers is the ultimate culmination of the Together mission. Dr. Davidds is inspiring and courageous -- a true example of what it means to live in your purpose and follow your dreams.”

More than 2,000 women gathered at the Pantages Theater for friendship, empowerment, and action. Core speakers included Glennon Doyle Melton, Seane Corn, Dr. Jacqui Lewis and Valarie Kaur, with celebrity guest appearances from Abby Wambach and Geena Rocero.

“Together is a movement bringing new ideas, influencers, and organizations together,” shared Hare. “Yasmin is the epitome of a Dream Achiever. She personifies what we hope for all the women attending the Together tour.”

Dr. Davidds knew her mother had the strength, she just had not found it. So, Dr. Davidds made it her life’s mission to help other women find their strength.

Dr. Davidds is the founder and CEO of the Latina Global Executive Leadership and Entrepreneur Institute at the University of Southern California (USC). It is a unique leadership development program that addresses the sociocultural realities of today's emerging corporate Latina leaders and helps them reach their full potential.

With an undergraduate business degree from the USC, a master’s degree in women’s studies from San Diego State University, and her doctoral degree from USC, Dr. Davidds inspires women across the globe to take control of their lives, education and dreams.

She believes in empowering women to be leaders. And she has had help along the way too. She is a graduate of Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Latina Leadership Institute. The goal of the institute is to train Latinas in leadership and advocacy skills, allowing them to create vital change across California.

“HOPE has had a profound impact on my leadership identity and my life. First, serving on their board of directors for 10 years taught me the true sense of sisterhood,” shared Davidds. “HOPE’s Leadership Institute curriculum elevated my competencies as a community and civic leader and instilled a sense of pride of being Latina.”

HOPE and Dr. Davidds have helped create positive change in California, encouraging young women to graduate high school, go to college, be leaders in their community and promote civic engagement. State Farm has supported HOPE for nearly 20 years.

“The pipeline of Latina leadership in California HOPE has developed is impressive and I am extremely proud to be a product of their hard work and dedication,” Dr. Davidds continued. “The advocacy skills the Institute taught me enabled me to create fundamental change within my community, my business and those I lead.”

Dr. Davidds took a risk, rejected the status quo and followed her heart. Now her life reflects her passion for helping and empowering others. She is a Dream Achiever.

The word, and acronym, HOPE is a constant reminder of what matters most to Helen Iris Torres. HOPE, is the mentoring program she leads to empower and bring hope to California high school girls.

Since 2004, the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Youth Leadership Program (HYLP) has educated more than 3,000 young women to become leaders while encouraging them to go on to college. Helen is the executive director of HOPE.

Program participants receive financial literacy and civic engagement trainings tailored to their needs in an age-appropriate and culturally sensitive way.

HYLP participants conduct surveys of Latinas in their high schools. They share the findings with state legislators in more than 160 meetings annually. They talk about the challenges high school Latinas face in their communities. Challenges that deter them from attending college.

“One thing I learned from the HYLP was there are various resources to help me and my peers with the college process. Now I don’t have any fears about applying to college.” Says Alyssa Villegas, HYLP participant 2016.

HYLP participants also share survey results at youth town halls and with school board and community leaders in areas like Napa, Los Angeles, Riverside, and Fontana.

The HLYP takes on more than 300 high school-aged Latinas annually. Twenty-four of those Latinas participate in a targeted, six month program (Track 1). The rest (Track 2) convene during HOPE’s two largest conferences, HOPE Latina History Day and Latina Action Day at the state capitol in Sacramento.

“HYLP inspired me to pursue a higher education and become a role model. It opened my mentality to different career paths, such as the media and politics,” shared Evelyn Camacho, HYLP participant 2016. “I’m thankful I was a part of this program because I developed a broader thinking process and it taught me the tools needed to become an advocate in my community.”

More than 360 Latinas have participated in the intensive six-month leadership program. Nearly 90% of those have enrolled in college and 98% have graduated from high school. Participants credit the HYLP for motivating and encouraging them to pursue higher education.

This year the participants met with state elected officials and shared their findings on topics including teen driver safety and the dangers of texting and driving. With the help of State Farm, the young women provided current stats and research on both topics.