Project Title:
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program: Pawnee Nation College
Funding Program:
Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program
Project Purpose/Type:
Purpose/Type This dual Broadband Use and Adoption and Planning, Engineering, Feasibility, and Sustainability Studies project will promote broadband adoption and digital inclusion by establishing a student technology grant and computer lab, increasing campus-wide broadband services and equipment access while increasing the digital communications curriculum. Additionally, the applicant will conduct a feasibility study for broadband infrastructure enhancements for a Pawnee Nation College satellite campus. These initiatives will promote broadband adoption and use, distance learning opportunities, build workforce development programs, and increase digital inclusion efforts while assessing the future needs of Pawnee Nation College for broadband infrastructure deployment.
State(s):
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$1,982,062.38Funding Amount
Project activities in support of this grant include:
- Conduct an assessment and impact review plan for the College Computer Lab, student technology grant, Pawnee Nation College Library, technology curriculum, and feasibility study for the satellite campus.
- Provide a student technology grant up to $1,000 for students in need to cover broadband equipment, software, service, and training.
- Upgrade the College Library/Computer Lab with computers and accessory equipment where students can conduct research, receive additional tutoring, or attend digital literacy workshops.
- Revitalize the digital communications curriculum to provide foundational knowledge for students pursuing continuing education and/or technical degrees.
- Conduct a feasibility study for the Golconda Satellite Campus to determine if current or future broadband infrastructure is suitable to provide instruction for future students in a more remote, underserved region.
A well-developed and documented solution for future broadband infrastructure deployment at the Golconda Satellite Campus. The Broadband Use and Adoption portion will upgrade existing network equipment and connectivity on campus in addition to improving course curriculum and student access to digital equipment and resources.
This project will benefit 50 enrolled students in addition to 15 full-time staff plus several adjunct professors. 42% of students and staff fall below the 150% poverty line.