Panelists and Program for the Free Connect20 Summit on November 14
The event is organized by NetworkOn, National Digital Inclusion Alliance and Broadband Breakfast, and sponsored by Comcast.
WASHINGTON, November 7, 2023 – NetworkOn, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance and Broadband Breakfast have announced the panelists for the Connect20 Summit on Tuesday, November 14.
Sign up for the Connect20 Summit, in person or online! Registration is free.
TOWN HALL CONVERSATION
Representatives from several agencies will provide an update on efforts within the government to expand broadband access and adoption and close the digital divide. After a brief discussion, we’ll open the floor for questions.
Speakers:
- Drew Clark (Moderator), Editor and Publisher, Broadband Breakfast
- Laurel Leverrier, Assistant Administrator, USDA’s RUS, Telecommunications Programs
- Sarah Morris, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Deputy Administrator, National Telecommunications and Information Administration
- Joey Wender, Director, Capital Projects Fund, U.S. Department of the Treasury
PANEL 1: CONNECTING THE HARDEST-TO-REACH AMERICANS
As policymakers consider digital inclusion solutions, understanding the barriers to the problem is important. Cost is a key factor for not subscribing to broadband, but other barriers like digital skills, trust, language, location and access to a device play a major role. So how do we connect those Americans who are hardest to reach? This panel will explore why digital navigation services so important and the tools that digital navigators can use to connect community members to broadband, digital skills and devices.
Speakers:
- Angela Siefer (Moderator), Executive Director, National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- Candace Browdy, Executive Director, Connect Lake County
- Kendall Lee-Daugherty, Digital Navigator, Cherokee Nation
- Walter Prescher, Easter Seals of Greater Houston
- Dr. Fallon Wilson, Black Churches 4 Digital Equity
PANEL 2: BUILDING SUCCESSFUL DIGITAL ADOPTION PROGRAMS THROUGH PRIVATE AND PUBLIC PARTNERSHIPS
With so much public funding available, how can local organizations work with their states and beyond to help secure public funding on all levels? And not to mention the private funding that is available through different ISPs. This panel will explore public and private funding as well as the public/private partnerships that digital equity organizations can pursue.
Speakers:
- Amy Huffman (Moderator), National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- Iris O’Donnell Bellisario, Lead for America
- Solomon Graves, Director of Public Policy, Heartland Forward
- Thomas Tyler, Deputy Director, Connect Louisiana
PANEL 3: IMPROVING DIGITAL SKILLS
Digital adoption doesn’t go very far if users lack the ability to meaningfully engage with the online world. How can digital navigators and practitioners incorporate digital skills training into their services? Panelists will discuss what skills are most needed and what’s working in communities to get people online.
Speakers:
- Yvette Scorse (Moderator), Communications Director, National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- Gina Birch, Ashbury Senior Computer Community Center
- Graeme Jackson, Social Media and Content Analyst, Human I-T
- Chrissie Powell, Chief Growth & Impact Officer, Byte Back
- Caroline Treschitta, Policy Analyst, National Skills Coalition
PANEL 4: THE POWER OF NAVIGATION SERVICES
Navigation services are key to getting Americans online, and the data proves it. This panel will explore the empirical evidence and studies backing up the power of digital navigators.
Speakers:
- Kate Allison, Comcast
- Jessica Dine, Information Technology Innovation Foundation
- Michele Thornton, Oswego State University of New York
Sign up for the Connect20 Summit, in person or online! Registration is free.
ORGANIZED BY
Network:On is a campaign dedicated to closing the digital adoption gap, bringing America’s Excellent Internet to everyone. Launched in 2022 as a public education campaign, we’re working with community organizations and partners nationwide to spotlight the stories of those who work on the frontlines daily, going door by door to connect and empower their communities. Visit network-on.org to learn more.
National Digital Inclusion Alliance advances digital equity by supporting community programs and equipping policymakers to act. NDIA combines grassroots community engagement with technical knowledge, research, and coalition building to advocate on behalf of people working in their communities for digital equity.
Broadband Breakfast is the leading media company advocating for higher-capacity internet everywhere through topical, timely and intelligent coverage. The company’s annual Digital Infrastructure Investment Summit champions a robust 21st century information economy.
SPONSORED BY
Comcast Corporation is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business and Sky; produce, distribute and stream leading entertainment, sports and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.
