Experts will gather at the 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Summit to share strategies for advancing digital inclusion.
[Baltimore, MD] — On Tuesday, October 15th, digital inclusion advocates from Maryland and beyond will convene at the National Federation of the Blind in Baltimore for the 2024 Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Summit. Building upon the success of last year’s event, the 2024 summit brings together leading experts to explore best practices and collaborative strategies for advancing digital literacy and inclusion. The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with breakfast and registration beginning at 8 a.m. Attendees are eligible for 6.5 entry-level Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) or 5.5 Social Work continuing education credits (CEUs). The annual Maryland Digital Equity Summit is presented by Marylanders Online, a University of Maryland Extension (UME) initiative in partnership with the University of Maryland College of Information (INFO) working to promote digital literacy throughout the state. For more information about 2024 Digital Equity Summit speakers, agenda, or registration information, visit the UME Marylanders Online website.
About the Summit Speakers and Panelists
Aligning with the Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Plan and the Digital Equity Act, the summit aims to maximize the meaningful exchange of information, best practices, and experiences to overcome Maryland’s digital inequity challenges. Dr. Revati Prasad, Vice President of Programs at the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society, will deliver the summit’s keynote address, followed by the Higher Education Systems plenary session. Attendees will enjoy a lunch buffet catered by local Baltimore business Zeffert and Gold Catering, followed by an exciting Lightning Rounds session where nine speakers have three minutes each to share actionable advice for digital inclusion. The lunchtime break will conclude with the 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champion Awards ceremony.
The summit’s afternoon session will resume with a State Entities Panel discussion about the Maryland State Digital Equity Plan and funding strategies. The Digital Equity Planning and Outreach Panel will follow, tabled by state and local experts addressing the essential strategies for community outreach, data collection, and building strong coalitions for inclusive digital equity solutions. The following Digital Skills Training Panel will explore lessons learned from successful digital training programs, focusing on program sustainability, resource curation, and reaching diverse populations.
The 2024 Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Summit will culminate with the Digital Navigation Panel, featuring experienced digital navigators sharing their insights on the challenges and successes of bridging the digital divide in their communities and offering practical advice for sustaining digital navigation programs.
Registration Information for the Summit
Registration for the 2024 Maryland Statewide Digital Equity Summit is $40 before October 1st, or $50 until the October 15th event. For more information, please visit the Marylanders Online website or register directly at https://go.umd.edu/2024DES. Registration includes complimentary parking, breakfast, lunch, and refreshments throughout the day. To ensure accessibility, live American Sign Language (ASL) translation and CART captioning services will be provided. Individuals interested in learning more about digital equity are also encouraged to register for the
Digital Equity Webinar Series, which will be held weekly from October 4th to December 6th.
About the University of Maryland Extension – Marylanders Online
Marylanders Online is a statewide digital literacy project through the University of Maryland Extension that offers free tech support, computer help, and digital skills resources and training. The toll-free helpline 1-866-206-8467 can be reached Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or by emailing marylandersonline@umd.edu. Support is available in Spanish, English, and over 180 additional languages upon request.
University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class.
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The original release was written and published by Julie Slivka of University of Maryland Extension on September 20, 2024.
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