Outcome underscores commitment to academic excellence, innovation and fiscal stewardship

Alvernia University has been awarded 120 laptops as part of the COVID-19 ARPA Digital Connectivity Technology Program, a $20 million statewide initiative administered by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority to expand equitable access to digital resources. Laptops are available at no cost to undergraduate, graduate and adult students through the Media Suite and Seniors College as well as to community members through the O'Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship.

Alvernia is one of five recipients and the only university in Berks County to receive devices through the program. The university's participation is part of its ongoing work with the Berks County Digital Coalition (BCDC), a regional network of education, workforce and nonprofit organizations focused on closing the digital divide established by Wyomissing Foundation President Pat Giles, an Alvernia University trustee.

"This partnership exemplifies what can be accomplished for our community when multiple sectors unite around a shared goal," said President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. "By working alongside our fellow coalition members - including libraries, workforce agencies and county organizations - we are helping to build a stronger, more inclusive digital ecosystem in Berks County."

90 laptops will be distributed to students through Alvernia's Media Suite. 25 laptops will be distributed through the O'Pake Institute for graduate and undergraduate students in the Fellows Program as well as the SPARK Business Incubator for clients and tenants. Five laptops will also be available for drop-in workshops offered through the Seniors College.

"Bridging the technical divide is essential for our students and neighbors to thrive academically, professionally and personally," said Senior Vice President and Provost Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D. "With these devices, we are advancing equitable access to technology and promoting long-term digital inclusion."

The initiative aligns with Alvernia's strategic focus of surrounding students with a culture of care through its SOLAR iniaitive and supporting nontraditional learners through innovative, flexible services that eliminate barriers to higher education.

"This grant has tremendous impact for our adult students, many of whom balance work, family and school," said Vice President for Graduate and Adult Education Gaetan T. Giannini, Ed.D. "Reliable access to technology ensures they can participate fully in their courses and succeed on their academic journey."

Additional Berks County grantees include the Reading Public Library, Berks Latino Workforce Development Corporation, Helping Harvest and Centro Hispano. Together with Alvernia, the five organizations are working through the BCDC to ensure device distribution; digital literacy training and community access are available to those most in need.

This Project was financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority.