Maryland Digital Equity Champions Honored for Exceptional Leadership
Marylanders Online has announced the 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champions. Three organizations were named Digital Equity Champions out of twenty-five deserving nominees, and two others received honorable mentions.
The 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champions were nominated by their peers and selected based on their demonstrated innovation, leadership, collaboration, and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and serving underserved communities. These awardees have proven pivotal in driving transformative, measurable, and sustainable change in digital equity across Maryland.
2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champion Award Recipients
Digital Harbor Foundation
Pictured below: Jade Burnham and Andrew Coy accepting a 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champion Award on behalf of the Digital Harbor Foundation
Digital Harbor Foundation is a Baltimore-based nonprofit dedicated to creating pathways to opportunity by promoting digital equity, diversity in the tech sector, innovative STEM education, and technology for the public good. Their reach has grown from just Baltimore City to now extending around the United States and internationally. Digital Harbor Foundation’s leadership, innovation, and commitment to digital equity have had a profound impact on the advancement of digital equity in Maryland. Andrew Coy and Jade Burnham accepted this award on behalf of Digital Harbor Foundation. Visit https://digitalharbor.org/ for more information about this organization.
Andrew Coy, CEO and President of Digital Harbor Foundation
Andrew’s extensive experience, including his tenure at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to advocate for inclusive tech policies at both the local and national levels. Central to Andrew’s work is his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. His initiatives prioritize marginalized communities, ensuring that digital access is not only available but also equitable and empowering. By providing not only devices and internet connectivity but also comprehensive training and support, Andrew's programs equip individuals and families with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
Jade Burnham, Director of AmeriCorps Services at Digital Harbor Foundation
Jade's leadership has catalyzed a significant expansion of digital equity in Maryland. In her role as Director of Digital Harbor Foundation's AmeriCorps Program, she has empowered countless individuals to bridge the digital divide through the successful funding and launch of the "Harbor Navigators Baltimore" program. Jade's servant leadership approach, characterized by her commitment to serving all people and her ability to prioritize critical needs and navigate complex challenges, has been instrumental in the program's rapid success.
Prince George's County Memorial Library System
Pictured below: Maribel Rodriguez, Bilingual Program and Outreach Associate, and Lailuma Social, Digital Literacy Program Manager and Educator, accepting the 2024 Digital Equity Champion award on behalf of Prince George’s County Memorial Library System
The Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) has been a dedicated advocate for digital equity and inclusion. Through targeted outreach in community centers, schools, and housing communities, PGCMLS has experienced profound success in helping immigrants and refugee communities bridge the digital divide. By leveraging strategic partnerships, the organization has been able to offer digital literacy programs in multiple languages at various locations, both in-person and virtually. To address transportation and access challenges, PGCMLS pilot programs equipped participants with pre-loaded SmartTrip cards and data-inclusive loaner Chromebooks and onsite child programming has been offered to overcome childcare barriers. To learn more about PGCMLS, visit https://www.pgcmls.info/.
BDS Healthy Aging Networks, Inc.
Pictured below: Betsy Simon, CEO and Founder of BDS Healthy Aging Network
Betsy Simon has been a tireless advocate for digital equity and inclusion, particularly for older adults. As the founder of BDS Healthy Aging Networks, Inc., Betsy has provided a vital platform for older adults to access information, resources, and opportunities to engage with technology. Betsy’s unwavering commitment to digital inclusion has led her to work closely with city and state officials to shape policies that address the unique needs of older adults. Through her advocacy and community outreach efforts, Betsy has helped to ensure that older adults have a voice in the digital ecosystem.
2024 Maryland Digital Equity Honorable Mentions
Colby Davis Jr.
Pictured below, Colby Davis, Jr. accepts his Maryland Digital Equity Honorable Mention award
Colby Davis Jr. is a 20-year-old Maryland resident dedicated to finding new opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and ways to uplift his community. Colby's journey began with a self-taught mastery of computer building after which he taught a class of ten youths, ages 8-19, to guide them through the process of building five additional computers. This not only provided the Greenmount West Community Center Foundation’s computer lab with higher-quality technology but also instilled critical digital skills in the youth, showing them what they are capable of achieving with guidance and determination. Colby also designed and built a driving simulator, providing a valuable tool for individuals to practice driving skills and prepare for their licenses. His dedication to improving as a leader and mentor has created lasting change while evolving into a more effective leader and servant to those most in need.
Jerry Price
Pictured below, left to right: Tiffany Green, Jerry Price, and Courtney Curran post with Jerry’s honorable mention award at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
For almost two decades, Jerry Price has been a driving force at the Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled through his work as the Assistive Technology Education Program Coordinator. Jerry has shared his expertise in assistive technology through statewide demonstrations, reaching retirement communities, blind advocacy groups, and public libraries. His monthly Technology User Group (TUG) program, conducted virtually, has allowed people from across the state and country to participate in discussions on the latest assistive technology news and trends. When not creating content for TUG, he conducts one-on-one classes with Maryland residents. Jerry also manages a team of volunteers who assist him in providing access for our Maryland patrons. As a champion for digital equity, Jerry actively tests new technologies from a blind person's perspective. He helps patrons navigate braille e-readers and ensures the accessibility of LBPD documents, programs, and communication methods, guaranteeing equal access for all Maryland users.
About the 2024 Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Summit
The 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Summit provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the latest trends and best practices in digital inclusion. By honoring these champions, UME Marylanders Online aims to inspire others to join the movement toward a digitally equitable Maryland. Read the 2024 Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Summit press release or find pictures of the event on the Marylanders Online Facebook page.
About UME Marylanders Online
Marylanders Online is an initiative through the University of Maryland Extension (UME) and the College of Information (INFO) with state funding that aims to bridge the digital divide throughout the state by promoting digital equity. Marylanders Online aims to advance digital equity in Maryland by helping people get connected with devices, affordable internet, self-directed and guided training curricula, and ongoing technical support. To connect with Digital Navigator for live, one-on-one support, Marylanders can dial 1-866-206-8467, Monday through Friday, 10 AM- 8 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 5:00 PM, or email marylandersonline@umd.edu to schedule an appointment. For additional resources and information, visit marylandersonline.umd.edu.
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