Bridging Baltimore's Digital Divide with Kenya Asli, JD '08

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of “The UMB Pulse,” Kenya Asli, JD ’08, director of the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Broadband and Digital Equity, shares how she blended her Maryland Carey Law degree with her social work degree to help close the digital divide in Baltimore.   Asli discusses the city’s broadband strategy, initiatives to provide public Wi-Fi and digital resources, partnerships with local internet service providers, and the role of makerspaces in fostering creativity and innovation.00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Kenya Asli01:47 Kenya's Educational Journey and Career Path07:27 Advice for New Graduates11:43 Role and Goals of the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity15:46 Challenges and Solutions in Baltimore's Internet Access20:37 Public WiFi and Consumer Protection22:22 Addressing the Equity Issue in Baltimore's Internet Service23:43 Expanding Fiber Infrastructure for New ISPs24:34 The Importance of Internet Access in Modern Life25:38 UMB's Partnership with Waves for Free Internet26:18 Challenges and Innovations in Providing Reliable Internet29:12 Public Wifi and Device Accessibility in Baltimore32:42 Empowering Seniors with Technology36:22 Bringing Technology to the Community with Mobile Units39:16 The Rise of Makerspaces in Baltimore42:49 Personal Preferences and Final ThoughtsListen to The UMB Pulse on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music, and wherever you like to listen. The UMB Pulse is also now on YouTube.Visit our website at umaryland.edu/pulse or email us at [email protected].