Allies

The founders of Connexus Technologies, Lawrence James and Chris Holland, are more than simple entrepreneurs. They are men of conviction, of faith and of action in the communities they serve. It's a fascinating discussion with two unique and innovative leaders in the African American community.

Show Notes

Lawrence James, President and CEO of Connexus Technology, is passionate about serving in his community. He has spent countless hours volunteering his time to serve at Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility (CFCS) in North Philadelphia, providing spiritual and emotional support to inmates. He currently leads a team of men and women who bring hope to those who are incarcerated at George Hill Correctional Facility in Delaware County.  Besides giving hope, this weekly program for inmates includes spiritual guidance and community re-entry support.  Lawrence also volunteers his time at universities in Philadelphia, providing business expertise to young adults. Currently he serves on the Board of Directors for the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he was a member of the Board of Directors for Drexel Neumann Academy (DNA), a free Catholic School in Chester, PA, for under-served students, where he introduced the students to drone flight and the technology behind it. Drexel Neumann Academy has since adopted the curriculum, and the course is being taught to students throughout the school. Lawrence’s service underscores his passion and interest in youth, criminal justice reform, and bridging the digital divide. This spirit of service permeates throughout the Connexus organization and is an essential component of the Connexus culture.

Rev. Christopher J Holland II  serves as Executive Pastor of Salt and Light Community Church and the Executive Director of The Common Place (a not for profit ) in the Southwest section of Philadelphia. He is an entrepreneur and the Co-founder/COO of Connexus Technology, a leading-edge technology consulting firm in Philadelphia since 2003. He is a native of Philadelphia, and holds a Bachelor of Science and Engineering degree in Computer Science from Drexel University. After co-founding the technology startup, he obtained his Master of Divinity degree from Palmer Theological Seminary. As a member of The Common Place leadership team, Pastor Chris brings his gifts of strategic planning, pastoral care, community engagement and passion for family advocacy to fulfill the mission of The Common Place and uplift the Southwest Philadelphia Community.   He is happily married to Ime, and they are blessed to be parents of six children.

Connexus Technology provides IT staffing and IT managed services for mid to large sized organizations in need of a dedicated IT partner. For more than 17 years, Connexus has been helping customers across the globe in a wide variety of industries to improve operations and profitability with innovative software solutions, and with expert on/offsite consultants. Connexus’ leadership team extends their skills and knowledge to serve the Philadelphia and surrounding communities through civic engagement. This spirit of service permeates throughout the Connexus organization and is an essential component of the Connexus culture.

--------------

Music courtesy of Dan Rodriguez:
"The Allies Theme" by Dan Rodriguez

What is Allies?

Allies is a podcast that brings together people of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities and experience to share their stories of success, of failure and of forging their paths in life. We dive head first into tough issues like race, privilege and justice to find the similarities and differences among us that make life interesting and challenging. It’s awkward, honest and real, the kind of conversations we need now more than ever.