WELCOME
We are inviting you to join us and embark on a journey through HBCU’s stories on virtual education and connecting minority communities.
ABOUT THE SERIES
The Virtual Education Series for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (“HBCUs”) allows institutions to showcase their best practices and discuss resources for virtual education and connecting minority communities. Our goal in creating this series is to give all 101 HBCUs a platform to share their journey, all the amazing work and developmental milestones they have achieved, and their future plans.
VirtualJustice.US mission is to connect minority communities to legal, healthcare, economic empowerment, technology and other virtual resources and information. We seek to close the digital divide by providing digital access, resources and literacy.
AGENDA
Day 1
DAY 1- SUNDAY APRIL 14, 2024
Southern University Law Center & Virtual
801 Harding Blvd.
Baton Rouge, LA 70807
3:00PM-6:00PM
Registration
Welcome and Reception
Day 2
DAY 2- MONDAY APRIL 15, 2024
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70813
7:30AM-8:30AM
Registration & Breakfast
8:30AM-9:00AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
9:00AM-9:45AM
Keynote Address
9:00AM-9:45AM
Southern University Law Center
9:45AM-10:30AM
Clinton College
10:30PM-10:45PM
Break
10:45AM-11:30AM
Southern University Law Center
11:30AM-12:15AM
Southern University & AM College
12:15PM-1:00PM
Lunch
1:00PM-1:45PM
State Digital Equity & BE
1:45PM-2:30PM
North Carolina Central University
2:30PM-3:15PM
Lincoln University
3:15PM-3:30PM
Break
3:30PM-4:15PM
Johnson C. Smith University
4:15PM-5:00PM
University Of Maryland Eastern Shore
5:00PM-5:45PM
Tour
5:45PM-7:30PM
Closing Session & Dinner
SPEAKERS
During this event, you will hear from partnering HBCUs that have distinguished themselves as leaders in the use of educational technology and broadband access to facilitate learning.
Keynote Speaker
Angela Bennett
Director of Digital Equity
Angela Thi Bennett directs the allocation of the $2.75 billion Digital Equity Program and helps develop guidelines for states to strategically utilize these funds to have a transformative impact in their communities. Angela said of her new role, “As my ability to serve scales to the national level, I remain steadfastly committed to amplifying marginalized voices, empowering local communities to drive solutions, and creating shared standards of metrics to inform interventions and create accountability.”
Throughout her career, Angela has focused on community work and improving the quality of life in her Cleveland and greater Ohio communities. Her vast community and public sector experience include leading East Cleveland’s department of community and economic development, serving as Superintendent of a community school in Cleveland, and the Ohio State Board of Education. In her previous work at a community-based internet service provider, she was instrumental in growing the customer base and helping over 1,500 individuals benefit from affordable digital access during the height of the pandemic. Angela is an advocate and ambassador for equity and inclusion, using her network and voice to elicit social change.
Angela graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1992 and Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration degrees in 1996. She is also a certified LEED Green Associate.
Presenters
Jimmecha Carr serves as the Project Assistant for Charlotte’s Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot (CITIP) at Johnson C. Smith University, NTIA Connecting Minority Community Grant. Jimmecha’s primary focus in this role is to connect minority communities and organizations to digital resources while increasing digital literacy among patrons in underserved areas. Jimmecha works with community-based organizations within the 15-mile radius of Johnson C. Smith and continues to aim for opportunities that will enhance her work while simultaneously increasing digital equity for students and anchoring communities of Johnson C. Smith University. Jimmecha plays an instrumental role in leading and helping Charlotte’s Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot (CITIP) Fellows with their digital and broadband projects.
Jimmecha is from Albany, Georgia. She received her Associate of Arts (AA) in Communication from Andrew College, and her Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) in Communication from Valdosta State University.
With a New Era of Excellence, Jimmecha’s focus and goals align with producing digital stories that capture the needs of anchoring communities, faith-based organizations, and students at JCSU.
Dr. Siobahn Day Grady
Dr. Siobahn Grady’s remarkable journey began as the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 2018. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor and Program Director of Information Science/Systems at the School of Library and Information Sciences at North Carolina Central University. Notably, she heads the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence and Equity Research (LAIER), co-directs the Center for Data Equity (CODE), and holds the title of an Office e-Learning faculty fellow at the same institution.
Dr. Erezi Ogbo-Gebhardt
Assistant Professor of Information Science and Director of Extended Studies at SLIS
North Carolina Central University
Dr. Erezi Ogbo-Gebhardt is an Assistant Professor of Information Science and the Director of Extended Studies at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in the School of Library and Information Science. Previously, she was a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Southern California. Her research studies the digital divides, user acceptance of technology, and technology’s impact among marginalized populations. Erezi has received numerous awards for her work including the Charles Benton Early Career Scholar Award (2022) by the Benton Institute in partnership with the Research Conference on Communications, Information, and Internet Policy (TPRC), the Young Scholar Award (2022) by the Pacific Telecommunications Council, and the Robert Dunlap Award by the Department of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University. In 2014, Erezi was recognized as a promising young scholar by the Federal Government of Nigeria and awarded the Presidential Special Scholarship for Innovation and Development. Erezi earned her PhD in Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University, and also holds degrees from the University of St Andrews, Scotland and Bells University of Technology, Nigeria.
Website: https://ereziogbo.com/
Patrice J. Walker, MBA, MIS
Program Director for the NCCU Digital Equity Leadership Program
Patrice J. Walker is a dedicated professional committed to leveraging technology to advance higher education. With a rich educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems/Business Administration from Shaw University, an MBA from Fayetteville State University, and a Master of Information Science, Strategic Management from North Carolina Central University, Patrice embodies a blend of technical expertise and strategic acumen.
Ms. Walker has made significant contributions to institutions such as North Carolina Central University and Fayetteville State University over her two-decade career in Higher Education Technology. In her current role as the Program Director for the NCCU Digital Equity Leadership Program and Special Assistant to the CIO, she is at the forefront of driving initiatives that bridge the digital divide, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to promoting equitable access to technology in education.
Ms. Walker’s commitment to advancing knowledge and leadership in the academic realm is evident in her deep engagement in research areas such as Digital Equity and Women in Higher Education Leadership. Her pursuit of a doctoral degree in Higher Education Leadership from High Point University is a testament to her dedication and potential for future growth in the field. With a passion for innovation and a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals through technology, Ms. Walker continues to make a profound impact on the landscape of higher education and underrepresented populations in North Carolina and beyond.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricejwalker/
Christopher Lawson, MIS
Program Training and Development Manager for the Digital Equity Leadership Program at North Carolina Central University
Christopher Lawson is a growing professional in the field of Human-Computer Interaction and Computing, hailing from Greensboro, North Carolina. With a diverse background and a strong commitment to promoting diversity and representation in computing, Christopher is dedicated to inspiring others and advancing the field. Currently, he serves as the Program Training and Development Manager for the Digital Equity Leadership Program at North Carolina Central University, supporting the Connecting Minority Community grant.
Christopher’s passion for technology and design stems from his strong work ethic and creative spirit. He obtained a master’s degree in Information Science from NCCU’s School of Library and Information Sciences and a bachelor’s degree in Visual Media & Graphic Design from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. His interdisciplinary education in STEM and the arts provides him with a comprehensive understanding of academia, industry, and government.
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-lawson-phd-student-623816141/
Kamaria Mosley, Esq.
Attorney
Attorney Kamaria Mosley, based in Columbia, South Carolina, is a trusted legal professional specializing in probate law and estate planning, and is licensed in both South Carolina and Georgia.
Committed to making a difference beyond her legal endeavors, Attorney Mosley generously dedicates her time to educate populations on essential matters such as estate planning, trusts, and wills, EMPOWERING individuals with vital knowledge for their future.
Additionally, Attorney Mosley serves as a member of the Restorative United Neighborhood Peace North Columbia (RUN PNC) group, where she collaborates with community members to implement activities for the youth and gain access to employment resources, while promoting values of service and empowerment. Recently appointed as Commissioner for the Columbia Housing Authority, she aims to further her commitment to advocating for housing accessibility and affordability, ensuring that all members of her community have access to safe and secure housing.
A proud alumna of Spelman College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and North Carolina Central University, where she obtained her Juris Doctorate, Attorney Mosley’s journey underscores the transformative impact of HBCUs in nurturing future leaders and trailblazers. During her time at NCCU Law School, she also contributed to the institution’s IT department, supporting students and staff. Through these experiences, Attorney Mosley recognizes the critical need for expanding digital access to minority and disadvantaged communities. Her life’s motto epitomizes her ethos of service and excellence, guiding her in her endeavors to uplift and empower others.
Dr. John A. Oliver
Project Manager for the Charlotte’s Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot
Dr. John A. Oliver serves as the Project Manager for the “Charlotte’s Inclusive Tech-Innovation Pilot” at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC. He believes this pioneering project will place Johnson C. Smith University at the forefront of fostering innovation, connectivity, and economic empowerment in anchor communities. Dr. Oliver works to create a connected community through broadband, fostering economic growth and prosperity. Driven by a cross-sector consortium, he centers on increasing broadband connectivity, minority business enterprises, access to remote learning and work, and
Dr. Oliver is a native of Lansing, MI, and a graduate of Morehouse College (BA), Marygrove College (MAT), and Michigan State University (PhD). Most importantly, he is the proud father to daughter Joelle and adoring husband to Dr. Michele Oliver.
Keisha Parris
Digital Library and Learning Commons
Keisha Parris is the Director of Digital Library and Learning Commons at Clinton College in Rock Hill, SC. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Augustine’s University and a master’s degree in library science with a concentration in academic library from North Carolina Central University.
Prior to joining Clinton College, Ms. Parris served as the Educational Technology Librarian at Johnson C. Smith University for nearly five years, where she honed her skills in leveraging technology to enhance learning and research.
In her current role, Ms. Parris is dedicated to ensuring that Clinton College’s students, faculty, and staff have access to a wealth of resources and services to support their curriculum, research, and leisure information needs. She is responsible for facilitating quality library services both online and in-person, establishing and maintaining learning communities on campus and online, and fostering collaborative initiatives with academic and support units across the college.
Ms. Parris’s passion for knowledge, innovation, and community engagement positions her as an asset to the Clinton College community.
Dr. Urban Wiggins
Vice Provost for Decision Science and Visualization
Office of Academic Affairs at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Dr. Urban Wiggins is the Vice Provost for Decision Science and Visualization in the Office of Academic Affairs at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He also serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Technology. Dr. Wiggins is the PI of over $3 million in grants and has been instrumental in the procurement of over $20 million as a senior member. In 2020, he was awarded the Innovative New Spaces for Practice and Rehearsal Teacher Education Computer Science–Artificial Intelligence or INSPIRE CS-AI Fellowship from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Carnegie Mellon University. He serves as the UMES Extreme Science and Engineering Discovery Environment (XSEDE) campus champion and the advisor for Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) and Upsilon Pi Epsilon (UPE) student organizations.
He has served as the Director of Institutional Research and Data Analytics and Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems at Jarvis Christian University. He was an Associate with the Louisiana Technology Council and EMP Task Force for National and Homeland Security. He previously served as the Director of the Planning, Assessment, and Institutional Research office at Southern University.
Dr. Wiggins’ was previously employed in industry at Telcordia Technologies in the Broadband Networking Division as a Lead Consultant, DSL and Cable Modem Subject Matter Expert. He has also served as a Network, Server, and Customer Integration Engineer at the Intel Corporation.
Dr. Wiggins has been an active member of InfraGard, a public/private partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigations. In 2014, he was awarded the Louisiana Governor’s Technology Award for Outstanding Leadership in Technology for his work in the area of Cyber Security and Education. Dr. Wiggins received his doctoral degree in Computer Science from Louisiana State University and both his master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Southern University in Computer Science and Mathematics respectively.
SPONSORSHIP
VirtualJustice.Us mission is to connect minority communities to legal, healthcare, economic empowerment, technology and other virtual resources and information. If you would like to become a sponsor, please fill out the information below.
VENDORS
VirtualJustice.US is looking for vendors to participate at our Our Stories event. Please complete the form if interested. Vendor registration due: April 10, 2024
Please Note:
• Vendor tables must be set up, staffed and ready to operate by 4pm Sunday April 14th until 7pm.
• Skirted display table and 2 chairs are provided
• Vendors are responsible for cleaning up their area
It has long been the founders mission and now here at VirtualJustice.US to connect minority communities to legal, healthcare, economic empowerment, technology and other virtual resources and information.
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- Website: https://virtualjustice.us/
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