Contact:
Emily Blejwas, Community Development Specialist, 334.590.3814, blejwek@auburn.edu
Prattville, AL – On July 24 and 25, Alabamians from across the state can take part in an educational workshop and roundtable focused on the benefits of broadband in Alabama. Led by the Economic and Community Development Institute (ECDI) of Auburn University, the event is intended to educate community leaders, planners, educators, and citizens on the myriad opportunities broadband holds for our state.
The Summit is part of a larger statewide initiative, in which ECDI developed ten broadband training modules currently being delivered by Extension agents in all 67 counties. The project aims to help Alabamians maximize the benefits of the Internet and to boost participation in the global, digital economy.
“Broadband is now a core infrastructure,” notes Joe Sumners, ECDI Director. “Communities without reliable high speed internet access cannot compete in the 21st century economy. Broadband also can greatly improve people’s lives at home, at work, and at school. Things like distance education and telemedicine bring many new opportunities for our citizens, especially in the rural parts of Alabama.”
The Alabama Broadband Summit kicks off with a one-day workshop featuring panelists who have leveraged Internet technology to earn money, serve the public, save lives, and educate workers. It will also include materials, resources, and instruction on the ten training modules developed by ECDI, which include Broadband 101, eHome, and eCommerce. A half-day roundtable forum follows, giving participants the chance to explore the challenges, opportunities, and benefits broadband provides for Alabamians, their communities, and local economies.
The Summit will be held at the Prattville Marriott, and begins at 9:00 a.m. on July 24. Total cost to attend is $25. Click here for detailed information, or to register.
http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/ecdi/ecdi_news_broadband_2013.html