Project purpose:philander smith college connecting communities initiative proposes to modernize the college's digital infrastructure, providing broadband service, devices as well as training to help…

Project purpose:philander smith college connecting communities initiative proposes to modernize the college's digital infrastructure, providing broadband service, devices as well as training to help prepare the future workforce. The goal of this effort is to improve, upgrade, and expand the use of technology on campus with a focus on innovation to enhance the learning process of the students and provide more effective administrative functions for the faculty and staff. The college also plans to utilize funds to expand workforce development programs that addresses the skills GAP by providing training and education aligned with corporate and industry needs. Activities:philander smith college (PSC) plans to implement campus enterprise-level resources, refreshing technology for both students and employees. PSC proposes to purchase internet access service, install and upgrade broadband facilities, improve wireless connectivity on their campus and purchase eligible equipment and devices for student and community resident use. PSC will provide one-to-one devices for freshmen students prioritizing students in need. The college also plans to provide WI-FI hotspots for the students and anchor community residents who participate in PSC-led workforce development and community engagement programs. The proposed WI-FI hotspot lending program will allow community residents to check-out technology for their own educational purposes.outcomes: the philander smith college (PSC) connecting communities initiative will enhance support teaching and learning on campus and online through remote instruction. The one-to-one program and enhanced broadband access and connectivity will afford students the opportunity to engage in distance learning more effectively, participate in online courses, and utilize other online learning platforms. Further, the program will enable community residents to build their workforce skills and connect to the campus remotely for educational opportunities. Beneficiaries: beneficiaries include all enrolled students, faculty and staff, as well as anchor community members and participants in the workforce innovation and strategic economic public private partnerships (wise-P3) workforce development initiatives. These programs are offered to residents in the anchor community and region in little rock, arkansas. This initiative positions philander smith as a key player in solving the urban issue of underemployment in arkansas.subrecipient activities: the recipient does not intend to sub-award funds.