The 2002 Boston YMCA Black Achievers program has selected three Compaq New England employees for special recognition. Greg Etheridge, Robert Harris and Alfred Akoachere, all from the North American Pre-sales Systems Engineering (NAPSE) group at Taylor Street in Littleton were selected from 127 nominees throughout New England. The Compaq winners were nominated by their managers (Roger Poulin, Jack O'Donnell and John Baker), and selected by a YMCA committee.

Noting that only three honorees were selected this year from all over New England, NAPSE director Bill Picott said he is especially pleased to congratulate the three Call Center employees. "As representatives of the entire NAPSE family, it makes all of us proud."

	Greg Etheridge provides pre-sales technical support to the Enterprise Storage Group, as well as to customers. One of many reasons he was recommended as a Black Achiever, according to his manager, is his overwhelming impact on every group within the Littleton Contact Center in terms of leadership, customer satisfaction, and product knowledge transfer. In addition to excellence in his job, Etheridge is described as an asset in organizing Operation Graduation for seniors at Bellingham High School. He also plays and coaches basketball, and serves as a church deacon.
	Robert Harris delivers new product information for storage technologies to the NAPSE pre-sales teams. According to his manager, his efforts in the area of training and information delivery have been a critical component in his group's success. He was also cited for his leadership and professional abilities in the office. In the community, Harris worked closely with the schools his children attend, helping to establish a networked computer environment.
	Alfred Akoachere works as a pre-sales systems engineer, providing support, researching questions, and offering training on Compaq software management products to customers and to other NAPSE systems engineers. According to his manager, Akoachere is a key contributor to his team. He was recognized for his outstanding work efforts in Q1 2001. In the community, he is also involved in associations that support the development and betterment of the region of Manyu in the country of Cameroon.

Compaq has sponsored the Boston YMCA Black Achievers program for many years. Selection is based on professional achievement and community service. Recipients agree to perform at least 40 hours of community service in the coming year. The program will recognize about 80 people from the Greater Boston area at its 27th annual gala, which will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2002.