Project Title:
Strengthening Broadband Capacity to Amplify Educational Opportunities and Foster Digital Inclusion in Rural and Underserved Communities
Funding Program:
Connecting Minority Communities Program
Project Purpose/Type:
The Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) Connecting Minority Communities (CMC) project aims to bridge the digital divide and amplify educational opportunities and workforce development to ensure that university students and residents of the surrounding anchor communities have access to the opportunity to compete in today's workforce. The goals of the CMC project at ECSU will expand ECSU’s network infrastructure and capacity to support both on-campus and remote learners, extend broadband connectivity to support K-12 STEM programs and workforce training programs, and improve broadband literacy and awareness within the anchor communities.
City/Town/Service Area:
State(s):
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$2,131,383.00Funding Amount$2,131,383.00Total Project Cost0.00Non-Federal Cost Share
The Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) Connecting Minority Communities (CMC) project includes activities aligned with the project goals. ECSU will expand the current network to bring connectivity to outdoor spaces and areas used within the proximity of the campus to deliver instruction; integrate advanced simulation tools supported through high-speed broadband connectivity to expose students to industry needed technical skills in the curriculum; and provide broadband access and computing devices to students pursuing field experiences and online courses. ECSU will also increase digital skills and STEM knowledge through specialized K-12 programs; develop new or redesign existing STEM outreach programs to meet competencies needed in coding, mobile app development, and IT; and conduct IT professional development for faculty, students, staff, and interested individuals within the anchor communities. ECSU will engage workforce development centers, Small Business Technology Development Centers (SBTDC), governmental agencies, and small business networks to encourage and support broadband adoption; involve community groups, business, industry, museums, and educational and professional organizations within the anchor communities to promote broadband awareness and digital literacy programs; and conduct targeted workshops/seminars to increase participation in the digital workforce.
As a result of the project activities, the following outcomes will be met at Elizabeth City State University and in the anchor communities. At ECSU, improved broadband connectivity will support on-campus and remote learners and result in a 30% increase in on-campus broadband connectivity. This will enhance learning experiences, and broadband access and connectivity will allow for the expansion of digital skills, STEM, and workforce training programs. In addition, 100 online courses will be offered at ECSU. In the anchor communities, the project activities will result in increased awareness of the benefit of broadband access among underserved communities and will ultimately lead to increased broadband adoption in the anchor communities.
The proposed project will directly impact students and other participants at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) and within its anchor communities comprised of counties in northeastern North Carolina. As a result of implementing the proposed project activities, more students will be served by increased online classes. ESCU’s students, IT personnel, and faculty will receive digital skills training. Students will develop workforce training skills through paid internships, faculty will receive online distance learning training and certifications, students in grades K-12 will receive digital skills training; and adults from the anchor communities will receive IT workforce and digital skills training.
The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.
The applicant does fund a consortium. The applicant’s activities do occur in the surrounding anchor communities. Details of community involvement are described below.