Additional information
by William T. Parker (Author)
This memoir, How Did YOU Get Here? focuses primarily on the professional life of William T. Parker as a Black man in the White American Corporate world. This book follows Mr. Parker's story, starting with background history of his parents' families and his own earliest memories right through to the later stages of his corporate career. This memoir recounts some of the racial discrimination he has faced throughout his life, particularly during his career working with predominately White colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. It is evident through Mr. Parker's experiences that racism is institutionalized and engrained in many facets of life, even when least expected.
Author Biography
William T. Parker - Mr. Parker's career has included stints at Union Carbide Corporation, and Eastman Kodak Company, a long tenure which culminated as Sales Promotion Manager for Kodak film in the United States and Canada. In this position, he directed the successful launch of Kodacolor(R) 400 film. Subsequently, he worked for the E&J Gallo Winery as Brand Manager for E&J Brandy. Mr. Parker directed the highly successful new product launch for E&J Brandy. He served as President and CEO of The Marketing Forum, Inc., a successful advertising agency. He presided over the creative efforts of this organization resulting in the agency being awarded the very prestigious Communications Excellence in Black Advertising Award "CEBA". As a public speaker, Mr. Parker has delivered the keynote address at the Lang Dixon Day Educational Conference at The American College, in Bryn Mawr, PA, on two occasions. Mr. Parker is the recipient of many industry and community awards attesting to his skills and success as a motivator and leader in the financial services business. Mr. Parker holds a number of trademarks related to financial planning products and services. Mr. Parker, author of "How did You Get Here?" One Black Man's Journey through White Corporate America, has also written for several publications, including the MDRT magazine and the Atlanta Tribune. Mr. Parker has held a variety of community and business leadership positions as President of the Atlanta Chapter of The Society for Financial Service Professionals; Past President of the Atlanta Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors; and Past Chairman of the African American Advisory Committee to the American College; and a National Board Member of the Society of Financial Service Professionals. He is also a member of The Midtown Atlanta Rotary Club, a life member of The Million Dollar Roundtable, and member of the Cascade United Methodist Church. Mr. Parker is a native of Wilson, NC, a graduate of Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, and a graduate of The American College in Bryn Mawr, PA. Mr. Parker is married to the very lovely Mrs. Phyllis Parker.
