The Clayton County Office of Digital Equity (ODE) has been awarded the 2024 Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer award by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA). This marks the second consecutive year the ODE has been recognized for its efforts to bridge the digital divide in the county.
According to the Clayton County release, Takiyah Thomas, Digital Equity Administrator, expressed her pride in receiving the award for a second year, saying, "It’s an absolute honor to receive this recognition for a second year. As we chip away at the digital divide, we look forward to partnering with all seven municipalities in Clayton County to increase our efforts to reach every resident that has a digital need, be it digital access, digital devices, or digital skills."
The award highlights Clayton County's successful strategies in promoting digital inclusion. The NDIA recognized the county’s partnerships for device distribution, free digital skills workshops, and community events focused on raising awareness of digital equity. These efforts serve as a model for other local governments.
Angela Siefer, Executive Director of the NDIA, emphasized the role of local governments in supporting digital inclusion, stating, "In the past decade, we have seen local governments step into the important role of building digital inclusion ecosystems, where organizations that provide services can connect and thrive. NDIA’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers celebrates these critical efforts to bring digital opportunities to all residents," in the same release.
Clayton County residents can learn more about the Office of Digital Equity and its initiatives by visiting Clayton County’s website or contacting the office by phone or email. Media inquiries can be directed to Valerie L. Fuller, the Office of Communications Administrator.
