Finally … nope, never mind: The challenges of internet isolation

All times listed are central time (CT).

Internet access is a necessity in all facets of the modern world. However, this access is not readily available to everyone, even in America. In 2020, more than 98% of Americans had access to terrestrial broadband internet, yet only 74% of rural residents had similar access, according to the Pew Research Center. Many rural areas are trapped with slow internet speeds or have no service at all. High expense and income disparities also affect connectivity and device access. What impact does this digital divide have on education, healthcare, farming, local economies and other vital aspects of American society? How might bridging this divide address educational and socio-economic disparities? Whose responsibility is it to ensure equal access to what has become a necessity in the 21st century?

Host: Lindsey Strahan     Q&A Moderator: Katelyn McCoy

Presenters

Business Growth Director Richard Fordyce

Richard Fordyce

Business Growth Director
Osborn Barr Paramore

Assistant Regional Administrator Lois Gillmore

Lois Gillmore

Assistant Regional Administrator
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Design Program Manager Natalya Pemberton

Natalya Pemberton

Design Program Manager
Social Media

Professor of Hospitality Management Amit Sharma

Amit Sharma

Professor of Hospitality Management
Pennsylvania State University