Bridging the Digital Divide in the U.S.: Planning Innovative State and Local Approaches.

Описание: Spring 2026 Harry ’51 and Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development Seminar Series

Speaker: Mildred Warner and Natassia Bravo, Cornell University

Abstract: The US faces a deep digital divide which cuts across both urban and rural lines, but is most marked in rural, low income, and minority communities. We present a multi-level governance framework which explores how local leaders use policy opportunity and community resilience to address inequity in broadband infrastructure. We profile cases from communities across the US  to show how local and regional initiatives address the digital divide – how they harness local resources, state and federal funding, and how they navigate regulatory restrictions and financial constraints. 

About the speaker: Mildred E. Warner is a Professor of City and Regional Planning and of Global Development. She is an expert on state and local government policy and has published widely on infrastructure, economic development, finance, service delivery, and community development.

About the Seminar Series:
The Harry ’51 & Joshua ’49 Tsujimoto Perspectives in Global Development Seminar Series showcases innovative approaches to global development, featuring experts from around the world. Each year, the series attracts online registrants from more than 45 countries and over 350 organizations.

Seminars are held on Wednesdays from 12:20 p.m.–1:10 p.m. Eastern Time during the semester in Warren Hall 175. Students, faculty, and members of the public are welcome to attend either in person or via Zoom.

The series is co-sponsored by the Ashley School of Global Development and the Environment, and the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management. It is offered in conjunction with courses GDEV 4961, AEM 4961, NTRES 4961, GDEV 6960, AEM 6960, and NTRES 6960.