External LinkThe Digital Access Research Forum, an in-person event, brings together academics, researchers, community development practitioners and policymakers for impactful conversations around digital access research in areas such as:
- Program evaluation and outcomes measurement.
- Benefits of digital access interventions in communities.
- Economic and labor-market implications.

Pre-forum workshops will provide hands-on learning opportunities to explore data sources, facilitation, and research methods for effective community development programming and outreach.

SEE FULL AGENDA BELOW

When

Tuesday September 16: Pre-Forum Workshops
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11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025: Digital Access Research Forum
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8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Poster Session and Reception: 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 18, 2025: Digital Access Research Forum
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8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Registration

Attendees can register for one, two or all three days.

Pre-Forum Workshops (Day 1): Offers in-person workshop sessions that demonstrate applications of qualitative and quantitative research approaches, facilitation and storytelling in the context of community work. All workshops are led by Federal Reserve Bank staff.
- Audience: Data analysts, digital navigators & practitioners, community development program managers & directors, anchor institutions, state broadband offices, and policymakers

Digital Access Research Forum (Days 2 and 3): Covers emerging digital access datasets, measuring impact of digital inclusion interventions, economic benefits of broadband expansion, and affordability in rural communities, the role of broadband in rural economic growth and development, and defining underserved households in digital payment services.
- Audience: Academics, researchers, community development practitioners, state broadband offices and policymakers.

Registration Fees

- Day 1 only (workshops) - $50
- Days 2 and 3 only (main forum) - $150
- All 3 days - $200

External LinkREGISTER HERE


Agenda

Sept. 16, 2025

11:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m.

Arrival

12:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m.

Welcome and Opening Plenary

Welcome
- Marisa Martinez, Community Development Advisor & Co-Chair of the Digital Access Research Work Group, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
- Kassandra Huhn, Outreach Advisor & Chair of the Digital Access Research Work Group, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

Opening Plenary: Bridging the Divide Between Researchers and Practitioners
This session will explore the critical value of collaboration between researchers and practitioners to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Panelists will discuss how shared insights can lead to more relevant research and more effective, data-informed initiatives.

- Revati Prasad, Benton Institute
- Kathryn de Wit, The Pew Charitable Trusts
- Tom Esselman, Digital Equity Program Office of Greater Kansas City (DEPO-KC)

Moderator: Kseniya Benderskaya, Assistant Vice President & Community Affairs Officer Community Engagement and Development, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

1:00 p.m. 1:15 p.m.

Break

1:15 p.m. 2:45 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

"Collecting Community Perspectives, Purpose and Methods"
This workshop will introduce qualitative research fundamentals and explain the why and how of collecting these insights. We will discuss the purpose and ways to conduct qualitative research, the application of different methods, how to formulate questions, methods of codifying organizing information, and ways to present your findings. This hands-on workshop will engage participants on how to use what they have learned and allow participants to connect with others using qualitative methods in the digital access and community development space.
- Merissa Piazza, Lead Policy Analyst, Community Development, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
- Sarah Miller, Director and Principal Adviser, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

"Fundamentals of Data for Community Engagement and Representation"
This session will walk participants through the current landscape of broadband and socioeconomic data availability (in terms of time and geography) and showcase examples of data analysis and data visualizations that answer research questions about community-level broadband access relative to other socioeconomic characteristics and outcomes. Participants will learn how to identify opportunities and limitations with quantitative data as well as best practices in data visualization for community-level data.
- Ambika Nair, Community Development Research Analyst, Federal Reserve Bank of New York

2:45 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

Break

3:00 p.m. 4:30 p.m.

Concurrent Workshops

“Storytelling: How to Use Data to Tell Your Story”
In this session, you'll hear from a communications expert at the Fed about practical considerations for connecting data-informed work with the audiences you most want to reach. Together, we'll explore some memorable (and not-so-memorable) storytelling examples. You'll leave with clear guidelines for how you can use data to confidently tell your organization's story.
- Anne O’Shaughnessy, Assistant Vice President and Communications Director, Fed Communities

"Demystifying Community Development Research Tools from the Federal Reserve System"
Looking to learn more about the data tools the Fed offers? This workshop will introduce you to various community development data tools from across the Federal Reserve System that you can use to inform your work. Tools featured will include the External LinkCommunity Investment Explorer, the External LinkNative Community Data Profiles, and the External LinkOccupational Mobility Explorer. We will provide interactive demonstrations of the tools, examples of how you can use these tools to access local-level data, and exercises to help you start using them.
- Theresa Dunne, Community Development & Regional Outreach, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
- Mike Eggleston, Senior Community Development Researcher, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis
- Amalea Jubara, Research Assistant, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

4:30 p.m.

End of Pre-forum Workshops

Sept. 17, 2025

8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m.

Arrival and Breakfast

9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

Welcome and Opening Panel

Welcome
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Joe Gruber, Executive Vice President and Director of Research, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

Opening Panel: “Measuring the Proliferation and Impact of Digital Inclusion Ecosystems”
National and state experts will discuss how to evaluate digital equity ecosystems. They will also provide an overview of the process the presenters undertook to develop a comprehensive evaluation tool for use by state digital equity offices. The session will then delve more deeply into supporting coalitions as a key capacity-building strategy and the ways coalitions impact, foster, and influence digital inclusion ecosystems.
- Aaron Schill, Director of Research & Programs, National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- Amy Huffman, Policy Director, National Digital Inclusion Alliance
- Katie Fox, Strategic Planning & Learning Lead, Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
- Anna Miller, Manager at the Office of Broadband Ohio, Ohio Department of Development
Moderator: Jeremy Hegle, Assistant Vice President and Community Affairs Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m.

Break

10:45 a.m. 11:45 a.m.

Morning Plenary

Morning Plenary: "The Economic Benefits of Broadband Expansion: What Does Research Say and How Can You Use It?"
This presentation combines two perspectives – from a researcher and from a practitioner applying the results for specific communities – to investigate the economic benefits of broadband expansion. The presenters will highlight key research useful in quantifying broadband gains, and how an economic practitioner uses that research to inform growth assumptions under different broadband adoption scenarios.
- Alan Spell, Assistant Extension Professor, University of Missouri
- Brian Whitacre, Professor, Oklahoma State University
Moderator: Roberto Gallardo, Associate Professor, Purdue University

11:45 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

Lunch

Lunch Plenary: "The Role of Community Development Initiatives in Strengthening the Nation's Central Bank"
The Federal Reserve System has a variety of tools to advance digital access and the broader field of community development. For this panel, leaders from across the Federal Reserve will discuss their approaches and provide examples of how the Federal Reserve partners with communities. The audience will leave with a clearer understanding of how the Federal Reserve can be a resource for advancing local community development initiatives.
- Kseniya Benderskaya, Assistant Vice President & Community Affairs Officer Community Engagement and Development, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas
- Jeremy Hegle, Assistant Vice President and Community Affairs Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City
- Theresa Singleton, Senior Vice President and Community Affairs Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
Moderator: David Kaufmann, Manager Community Development, Oversight and Engagement, Federal Reserve Board of Governors

1:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m.

Break

1:45 p.m. 3:15 p.m.

Concurrent Breakout Sessions

“Broadband Affordability and Adoption”
This session will examine the impact of broadband affordability on low-and-moderate income populations and the importance of making broadband subscriptions affordable, especially through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The presenters will explore quantitative insights from existing pricing data, socio-economic data, and consumer insights as well as future policy directions with the sunset of the ACP.
Broadband Affordability: Assessing the Cost of Broadband for Low-and-Moderate Income Communities in Cities
- Ambika Nair, Community Development Outreach Analyst, The Federal Reserve Bank of New York
What Difference Did the Affordable Connectivity Program Make? Exploring Recent Broadband Adoption Data
- John B. Horrigan, Senior Fellow, Benton Institute for Broadband & Society
Moderator: Merissa Piazza, Lead Policy Analyst, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland

“Digital Access in Rural Areas”
This session will explore key aspects of digital connectivity in rural areas, including barriers to access and successful approaches for providing affordable devices and sustainable, long-term household connectivity. It will also highlight learnings from a digital skills and career development initiative focused on connecting rural residents to remote jobs.
Stuck in the Middle: Internet Insecurity in Rural America
- Shauna Plath, Research Assistant, Connected Nation, Inc.
Cultivating Sustainable Computer Ownership Ecosystems in Rural Communities
- Karisa J Tashjian, Senior Director of Programs and Strategic Partnerships, Digitunity
Extension Education for Economic Development: Evaluating Workforce Development Training for Rural Utah Residents
- Paul Hill, Extension Professor & Program Director, Utah State University
Moderator: Marycruz De Leon, Outreach Manager, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

3:15 p.m. 3:30 p.m.

Break

3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m.

Concurrent Breakout Session

“Broadband Data and Its Limitations”
Join Roberto Gallardo, Associate Professor, Purdue University and Colby Humphrey, Officer, Broadband Access, The Pew Charitable Trusts for an exploration of existing limitations in broadband data access and availability. Gallardo will present on recent research exploring the relationship between internet speeds and median household income and its implication on income inequality. Humphrey will present on his recent paper that explored shortcomings in existing federal datasets, and the subsequent analysis that aims to improve measurement and evaluation. Following the presentations, attendees can engage with presenters about the implications of this research and how broadband data can be leveraged by stakeholders and policymakers, alike.
How Fast is Fast Enough?
- Roberto Gallardo, Associate Professor, Purdue University
Bridging the Data Divide: Addressing Federal Data Gaps to Enhance Broadband Deployment
- Colby Humphrey, Officer, The Pew Charitable Trusts
Moderator: Rachael Surmick, Community Development Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City

“The Workforce Implications of Expanding Digital Access”
From deployment to access, this session will explore the implications of expanding broadband access for workforce development. In it, speakers will highlight the types of jobs required to build broadband infrastructure, training pathways into these roles, and how expanding internet access along with digital skills training influence educational attainment, business, and workforce outcomes.
Workforce Development in the Broadband Industry: Jobs Required for BEAD Deployment, Training Pathways, and Considerations for State Investment
- Lexi West, Officer, The Pew Charitable Trusts
Does Broadband Access and Digital Literacy Skills Impact Rural Workforce, Education and Businesses? Evidence from Communities in Rural Tennessee
- Sreedhar Upendram, Associate Professor, University of Tennessee

“Broadband Availability”
This session highlights innovative data collection and analysis methods for examining disparities in broadband availability, speed, and affordability. It will demonstrate empirical approaches that advance understanding of patterns in service coverage and pricing often overlooked in existing datasets, offering valuable insights to guide digital equity initiatives and support evidence-based policy decisions.
The Competitive Landscape of Digital Access: Mapping Broadband Availability and Affordability in Kansas City
- William Crumpler, Program Analyst, KC Digital Drive,
Closing the Digital Divide: New Insights on U.S. Broadband Availability
- Daniel Centuriao, PhD Student, West Virginia University
Moderator: Kassandra Huhn, Outreach Advisor, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas

5:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

Poster Session and Reception

Reception and Poster Session
“Extension Education for Economic Development: Evaluating Workforce Development Training for Rural Utah Residents”
- Amanda D. Ali, Data Scientist, Utah State University
“Building Collaborations with the Older Adult in Mind: Lessons from the Field”
- Ines Escandon, Director, Impact Measurement and Learning, Older Adults Technology Services (OATS)
“The Value of an Industry Sector Partnership Strategy and Workforce Data Analytics in Supporting Ohio’s Broadband & 5G Infrastructure Expansion"
- Julie Maurer, OERC Senior Researcher, The Ohio State University
- Tuyen Pham (Ohio University, Voinovich School of Leadership & Public Policy),
- Laurie McKnight (Ohio University, Voinovich School of Leadership & Public Policy),
- Mark Oleson (Ohio State University, Ohio Education Research Center).
“Digital Disconnectedness among Older Adults: Where Are We Today?”
- Jeff Rose, Director of Special Initiatives, OATS
“How a University System Promotes Broadband Access in Local Communities Through Extension”
- Jennifer Williams, Extension Engagement Specialist, University of Missouri System

Sept. 18, 2025

8:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m.

Arrival and Breakfast

9:00 a.m. 10:30 a.m.

Concurrent Breakout Sessions

“Regional and Geographic Economic Implications of Digital Access”
Session Description: This session will explore how digital access and adoption is an important factor in regional and rural economic growth and development. The presenters will examine how broadband access and adoption improve business growth, educational access, workforce development opportunities, and regional economic outcomes in rural places and communities surrounding Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).
Beyond Connectivity: The Role of Broadband in Rural Economic Growth and Resilience
- Amanda Weinstein, Director of Research, Center on Rural Innovation
The Benefit of the Bargain: The Role of Institutions of Higher Education in Federal Broadband Investments
- Dominique Harrison, Director, Office of Minority Broadband Initiatives, National Telecommunications and Information Administration

“Perspectives from Community- & Coalition-Led Initiatives”
Session Description: TBD
Municipal Digital Equity Planning: A Community-Led Approach to Bridging Gaps and Building Sustainable Interventions
- Anagha Devanarayanan, Digital Equity Planner, Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC)
Building a Sustainable Digital Inclusion Through Ongoing Tech Support
- Kami Griffiths, Founding Executive Network, digitalLIFT

10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m.

Break & Network

10:45 a.m. 12:15 p.m.

Concurrent Breakout Sessions

“Toward Maximum Employment: Digital Access & Health”
Session Description: TBD
Bridging the Gap: Examining Disparities in Digital Healthcare Access and the Impact of Improved Connectivity on Health Technology Adoption
- Erezi Ogbo-Gebhardt, Assistant Professor, North Carolina Central University
The Digital Connection Health and Wellness Model
- Tiffanie Spearman, Senior Strategist/Advisor, CARDBoard Project
Better Internet, Better Health: A Statewide Assessment of Broadband Access in Underserved Communities in South Carolina
- Maushmi K. Patel, PhD student, University of South Carolina

“Increasing Financial Access through Digital Payments”
This session will explore research on digital financial inclusion as an important avenue to financial access and discuss a framework for measuring digital payments inclusion. Panelists will highlight the ways in which consumers access and use digital payments and remittances, the populations for whom the digital payments landscape is most influential, the costs consumers face in digital payments, and how digital financial access can improve access to other financial services in banking and credit.
Defining Households That Are Underserved in Digital Payment Services
- Claire Greene, Center Director, Payments Forum, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Aspen Principles for the Future of Remittances
- Diego Deleersnyder, Managing Director, Aspen Institute, Latinos & Society Program
Moderator: Ambika Nair, Community Development Research and Analysis Analyst, Federal Reserve Bank of New York

12:15 p.m. 12:50 p.m.

Lunch

12:50 p.m. 1:50 p.m.

Lunch Plenary

Lunch Plenary: “The Future of Digital Access and Ai”
Session Description: TBD
Incorporating Ai literacy and use in digital skills training for adults
- Tsion Tesfaye, Senior Research and Policy Manager, National Digital Inclusion Alliance
Building an AI-Ready Workforce: Lessons from New Jersey’s Life Sciences and Technology Sectors
- Kristine Joy Bacani, Research Project Coordinator & PhD Candidate, Rutgers University, Heldrich Center for Workforce Development
Moderator: Nye Hodge, Community Development Policy Specialist, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta

1:50 p.m. 2:00 p.m.

Closing Remarks

Closing Remarks
- Merissa Piazza, Lead Policy Analyst, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland