Dent receives "Technology All-star in Government" honors

12 Jan 05-Vicksburg, MS--Dr. Deborah F. Dent of the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) in Vicksburg, Miss., was recently recognized as a "2004 Technology All-star in Government" by the Hispanic Engineer and Information Technology magazine, Women of Color magazine, and IBM Corporation.

Dent received the award at the ninth annual National Women of Color Technology Conference in Atlanta, Ga. The award is presented to "accomplished women of color who have demonstrated excellence as leaders at work and in their communities."

Dent is the deputy director of the Information Technology Laboratory, the first female deputy of a major ERDC laboratory. In this position, Dent has oversight of more than 470 employees at four different sites around the country and an annual research program exceeding $90 million, with $150 million in equipment and facilities. In addition, she oversees the ERDC information technology infrastructure and management of ERDC's Information Resource Management Program, ensuring compliance with all Corps of Engineers, Army and Department of Defense requirements. 

Dent began her employment with the ERDC in 1976, and has held positions as a computer programmer, project leader, computer scientist, and principal investigator for software development and other ERDC programs. In 1996, she was selected as chief of the Automated System Engineering Group and in 2001, was chosen for her current position.

She received bachelor's and master's degrees in computer science from the University of Southern Mississippi and Jackson State University in 1976 and 1990, respectively. She earned her doctorate in scientific computing in 2002 from the University of Southern Mississippi. 

In addition to her responsibilities at the ERDC, Dent was also recognized for her community involvement. She is a graduate of Leadership Vicksburg, a program dedicated to furthering the best interests of the community. As co-pastor of Mt. Carmel Ministries, Dent conducts women, marriage, and evangelism workshops; holds classes for new members; teaches Bible studies and Sunday School; and oversees youth and women activities.  

She has served in nearly every office of the Vicksburg Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, a public service organization dedicated to promoting academic excellence and providing assistance to those in need. She has also served as a PTA officer for Bowmar Elementary School and is a volunteer Big Sister with the Vicksburg Family Development Center.