CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) announces the selection of Dr. Coleman Furr as the recipient of the 2010 Distinguished Information Sciences Award (DISA). AITP Executive Vice President Norbert Kubilus presented the DISA to Dr. Furr on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 10:00am during Coleman University graduation ceremonies.
For over six decades, Dr. Furr has seen the growth of the computer industry from its beginnings to today's sophisticated level of combined, multifaceted technologies. Beginning in 1946 in a family-owned business, Furr applied automation tools, eventually working with a variety of organizations, including S&W Fine Foods, the Puerto Rican government, and FedMart Corporation (forerunner of Price Club and Costco). After a highly successful career in business, where he saw the continuing need for technology training and education, he founded Coleman University and is still actively involved in the University's operations, serving as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees. In 2009, Dr. Furr founded Coleman Tech, a charter school emphasizing technology education.
Dr. Furr has given freely of his wisdom and experience by serving in various posts, including Commissioner for the Accrediting Commission of ACICS, Chairman of the ACICS Accrediting Commission, and Director of Certification for the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals (ICCP). Through his leadership ICCP, and its member organizations including AITP, achieved the goal of creating the Information Technology Body of Knowledge and the redesign of the testing program to emphasize a testing base body of needed knowledge, as well as testing in various specialties.
"On behalf of AITP, I'm happy to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Furr," said Norbert Kubilus, AITP Executive Vice President. "He is a pioneer in the development of the information technology business professional, one result of which is Coleman University. We truly value his efforts in this area, as well as his dedication to the betterment of AITP and the information technology industry in general. It is an honor to present this award to an industry trailblazer and icon."
The DISA recognizes individuals who have made contributions through distinguished services to the field of information management. Dr. Furr joins previous recipients Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, Ross Perot, Max D. Hopper, and Bill Gates in this prestigious circle of honor.
About AITP:
Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) is a worldwide association dedicated to promoting and evolving the technical and business skills of the information technology professional, to fostering the profession of information technology,and providing leadership opportunities in the Information Technology community. Established in 1951, AITP today is comprised of professionals, academicians, and university students in the Information Technology industry. For more information, visit www.aitp.org.