What Makes Broadband Champions: Lessons from Michigan

Benton Institute for Broadband & Society

Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - 1:00pm to 2:00pm
Time Zone: 
EST
Virtual Event

A discussion about the crucial role broadband champions play in addressing the connectivity needs in their communities.

Dr. Pierrette Renee Dagg, Director of Research at Merit Network and an inaugural Marjorie & Charles Benton Opportunity Fund Fellow, will present her research based on in-depth profiles of six Michigan communities that organized themselves to address their broadband needs.

Her Report: Could it be me? Should it be me? Understanding what makes Broadband Champions is out now.

Dr. Dagg found that the success of community efforts often hinged on the passions and persistence of a small group of community members—people she calls broadband champions.

Broadband champions do not need to hold a government office. They do not need to be technical experts. What matters to their success is the personal qualities they bring to bear, how they work with partners and overcome opposition, and finally, their commitment to the cause.

In a panel moderated by Dr. Revati Prasad, Vice-President of Programs at the Benton Institute of Broadband & Society, speakers will include:

  • K. John Egelhaaf, Executive Director of the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission (Including Berrien County)
  • Jason Kronemeyer, Director of Technology at Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District
  • Barb Fuller, former Chair of the Washtenaw County Broadband Task Force

As more communities devise their own broadband solutions leveraging federal funding, Dr. Dagg’s work and the work of these champions can help us understand what makes for successful efforts that are responsive to community needs. Together, panelists will share the stories of broadband community champions and the factors that contribute to their success.

Please RSVP for the event here.