Project Title:
Connections: Central State's Student and Communities Project
Funding Program:
Connecting Minority Communities Program
Project Purpose/Type:
Central State University (CSU)'s Connections: Central State's Student and Communities Project (CCC) aims to increase the institution’s technology infrastructure and enhance its ability to serve students and the anchor community in the Miami Valley region. CSU aims to work with selected community organizations within the Miami Valley region committed to increasing online education and telehealth services, along with workforce and digital skills development. The project will address the lack of a foundational, digital infrastructure in underserved communities.
City/Town/Service Area:
State(s):
-
$3,000,000.00Funding Amount$3,000,000.00Total Project Cost0.00Non-Federal Cost Share
The Central State Student and Communities Project (CCC) will (1) increase the university’s broadband capacity by enhancing physical (hardware and software) and human infrastructure; (2) increase access and connectivity by providing personal laptops with cellular data plans for students with demonstrated needs; (3) increase broadband access for targeted individuals and organizations by providing them with services and training through Land-Grant Extension services; and (4) provide training for students and anchor community residents on telehealth, entrepreneurial and distance learning, job creation, and economic growth through digital operations via broadband access.
Through this project, Broward College will improve access to affordable broadband through subsidies and education and increase access to technology equipment through loaner programs and access points. Additionally, BC will increase the number of individuals who receive workforce training and education leading to credentials, certifications, and degrees in Broward UP communities. Broward UP clients will be better prepared to engage in the tech economy through digital literacy training and on-the-job training experiences.
CSU is in Wilberforce, Ohio, a rural area in southwestern Ohio that is surrounded by farming communities. The Connections: Central State's Student and Communities Project (CCC) will primarily impact Central State University (CSU)'s traditional students as well as improve the learning experience of online students. Low-income students will receive internet-enabled computers and broadband connectivity. Upgrades to the campus will include installation of remote learning technology in classrooms that will enhance students’ learning environment. The remote learning classrooms will deliver training and educational experiences to non-CSU students. The CCC will impact faculty and staff by improving the campus technology infrastructure, community members residing in anchor communities, and community-based organizations will receive services and technology support.
The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.
The applicant does not fund a consortium. The applicant’s activities occur in the surrounding anchor communities. Details of community involvement are described below.