SHLB Coalition

SHLB wrapped up #AnchorNets2024 with our first-ever book signing following Dr. Nicol Turner Lee's keynote. She introduced her new book, Digitally Invisible: How The Internet is Creating the New Underclass, published by The Brookings Institution. What insights from Dr. Turner Lee's keynote or her book resonated with you the most?

We had the privilege of hosting a powerful fireside chat featuring Commissioner Anna Gomez, the first Latina-American confirmed to the Federal Communications Commission in over two decades! Joined by former Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, they discussed the critical importance of fostering a vibrant and competitive digital landscape where no one is left behind. Thank you for inspiring us at #AnchorNets2024, Commissioner Gomez, and former Commissioner Clyburn—true glass-ceiling breakers!

KINBER Associate Director of Programs Will Perez recently attended SHLB Coalition's annual AnchorNETS conference - and brought back some great takeaways: 1. Program and data management are key areas where many community anchor institutions need practical support to drive local digital equity initiatives. 2. To bridge the digital divide and create sustainable digital ecosystems, institutions should focus on sharing knowledge, pooling resources, and building partnerships with local stakeholders. These actions should be guided by clear digital equity strategies and proven best practices tailored to community needs. 3. Community anchor institutions can take an active role in promoting AI literacy, particularly in education. By offering targeted training and accessible resources, they can equip individuals with the skills to effectively engage with AI technologies. Thank you to SHLB Coalition for hosting such a great event!

Another reminder about the great work SHLB Coalition is doing in all of our communities. With so much at stake, there's no better advocate for #digitalequity and #strongbroadband than SHLB Coalition. Kellogg & Sovereign Consulting is honored and proud to be a part of this great organization. #AnchorNets2024 #erate #rhc

For the first time, SHLB hosted a keynote at #AnchorNets2024 titled "Women in Telecom," featuring trailblazers in the broadband space, including: 💫 Jordan Arnold 💫 Susannah Spellman 💫 Elizabeth Cuttner What do you think, should we bring it back next year? #DigitalEquity #HighSpeedInternet

I believe my sharing late posts from #SHLBAnchorNets24 Conference is due to me still unpacking a phenomenal experience. We have national leaders from NTIA, NDIA, and state leaders who are working diligently to close the #DigitalDivide for all. I am grateful to be an active champion with those who are passionate in making a difference for #DigitalEquity.

Today, we honor #IndigenousPeoplesDay, recognizing the importance of equitable internet access for Indigenous communities. At #AnchorNets2024, we had the honor of hearing from American Library Association President Cindy Hohl as she delivered a keynote on the vital role libraries and tribal nations play in closing the digital divide. We also hosted a panel discussing the challenges and opportunities in bringing broadband to tribal communities. Panelists Adam G., Cindy Hohl, MBA, MLIS, and Shannon Rosenbaum, moderated by SHLB Board Chair Cindy Aden, explored how the recent $3 billion Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program can enhance access and support tribal priorities. Let’s continue to amplify Indigenous voices and advocate for #DigitalEquity and inclusion in all communities!

SHLB’s COO, Kristen Engebretsen, was at #BroadbandNationExpo sharing insights on the impact of communication in our lives. The expo brought together industry leaders to discuss the future of broadband and digital equity. Check out these moments: 1. A snapshot from Kristen's panel discussion featuring Evann Freeman (EPB), Mark Pearson (Communities Unlimited), and Kyla Williams Tate (Cook County IL). - Evann Freeman, recently promoted to VP of Government and Community Relations at EPB, is leading efforts to enhance quality of life through connectivity. - Mark Pearson from Communities Unlimited is dedicated to bringing broadband access to underserved communities. - Kyla Williams Tate, Cook County Government’s inaugural Director of Digital Equity, spearheads initiatives to advance digital equity and inclusion. 2. Kristen with Carl Guardino from Tarana Wireless, Inc. at their expo booth. Tarana is making waves with its next-generation fixed wireless access (FWA) technology, providing fiber-class speeds and bridging the digital divide. 3. It was a proud moment for SHLB member and sponsor Zayo Group to receive an award for their outstanding Middle Mile Initiative! #DigitalEquity #Broadband #Connectivity #Innovation

Thrilled to have joined this year’s E-Rate panel at the SHLB Coalition event #Anchornets24, sponsored by @T-mobile. It was a privilege to share insights on how E-rate funding is pivotal in shaping the future of digital access in education. E-rate, formally known as the Schools and Libraries Program, plays a critical role in providing affordable access to telecommunications and internet services across American schools and libraries. This year, we discussed policy and funding adjustments aimed at further expanding technology access to underprivileged students and enhancing digital resources in libraries. Key takeaways included: 🏛️ E-rate’s impact on over 100,000 institutions, driving essential digital transformation. 🏛️ Discussions on policy enhancements to ensure equitable tech access for all students and library patrons. 🏛️ The importance of ongoing public and private partnerships to sustain and grow E-rate benefits. As we continue to navigate these transformative times, I am committed to advocating for policies that not only support but also advance the infrastructure of our educational and public library systems. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries for better access and educational outcomes. #Erate #DigitalEquity #EducationTechnology #PublicPolicy #TMobile

SHLB member Ji Soo Song, Director of Projects and Initiatives at SETDA, discussed SETDA's 2024 State EdTech Trends Survey and Report, which tracks top ed-tech priorities for state education leaders. The report gathers insights from state policymakers, including State EdTech Directors, State Superintendents and Commissioners of Education, and CIOs. Conducted with Whiteboard Advisors, it includes responses from 46 states and the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). Key focus areas highlighted in the report are: 🛡️ Supporting cybersecurity efforts 🤝 Effective and equitable use of edtech tools 🤖 Developing policies for AI in K-12 classrooms Since its release, the report has become a crucial guide for state leaders, offering: - A primer on state edtech trends - Spotlights of notable state-led efforts - Data to support research and advocacy Inspired by work across the U.S., these insights are valuable for any educational leader aiming to enhance digital teaching and learning in their community.   Please contact Ji Soo Song, Director of Projects & Initiatives, for any questions.