A New Era of Learning: Reflections on Bertie DigiCon
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NCAT’s Dr. Mark Light showing off the new Bertie 4-H robots to our next generation of Cloverbuds
On Saturday, October 12, 2024, the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Bertie County Center hosted a conference focusing on bridging the digital divide in Bertie in collaboration with the Bertie County Public Library, Roanoke Cooperative, and Fybe. With over 60 attendees, the event aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of digital equity in northeastern North Carolina and to ignite excitement among Bertie youth for STEM careers through the local 4-H program.
Keynote speaker Phillip Holloway, the Digital Equity Coordinator for NCDIT, set the stage by discussing the current state of digital equity in North Carolina. He clarified that digital equity is the goal for all individuals and communities to have the information technology capacity needed for full participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital inclusion refers to the work we do to achieve this goal—activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of information and communication technologies. Mr. Holloway’s insights emphasized that digital equity is not just a convenience; it is an essential human right that North Carolina is working hard to make possible for all residents.
One of the highlights of the conference was the interactive STEM activity area hosted by Bertie County’s 4-H program, led by 4-H Agent Toniqua Young. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with new robots and participate in coding exercises, making the learning experience enjoyable for both kids and adults. Notable representatives from NC A&T University’s Extension 4-H program, including Misty Blue-Terry, Sheronica Sharp, Travella Free, and Mark Light, attended the event, demonstrating their support and commitment to youth development in Bertie County.
The conference also featured NC A&T’s Mobile STEM Lab, “Innovation Station,” which hosted an open house with sample STEM activities. Local agencies, including the Bertie DHHS, the Mid-East Commission, NC Works, Bertie Council on Aging, AARP, Roanoke Cooperative, and Fybe, were on hand to provide resources and information to attendees.
Despite its smaller scale, the conference left a lasting impact. Attendees walked away with a clearer understanding of digital equity and its significance. The day was capped off with an exciting door prize giveaway, including a grand prize of a new HP laptop awarded to Ms. Martha Outlaw.
We encourage anyone interested in enhancing their digital skills for free to reach out to Rebecca Jinnette at 252-794-6170 or rjinnet@ncsu.edu. “Learning new skills can be daunting but it’s a journey worth taking,” said Rebecca. “My classrooms are a no-judgment zone where everyone is welcome to grow and learn at their own pace. Just like learning a new language, digital upskilling takes time and effort, but it’s entirely possible. Don’t let fear or frustration hold you back from participating in today’s digital landscape—the digital economy is here to stay, and we want you to be a part of it!”
Phillip Holloway, Digital Equity Coordinator for NC Department of Information Technology, delivers the keynote presentation at 2024 Bertie DigiCon.
Semaj and Eric of NC A&T State University’s Innovation Station deliver an open house to excited Bertie 4-H teen volunteers.
(L–>R) NCAT Extension STEM advocates Misty Blue-Terry, Sheronica Sharp, Mark Light, Toniqua Young, and Travella Free
And the winner is…Ms. Martha Outlaw! Congratulations!!!
Bertie DigiCon grand prize winner Martha Outlaw poses with (L–>R) Roanoke Cooperative’s Angela Battle & Angella Dunston, Fybe’s Melissa Smith, and Digital Skills Agent for Bertie Cooperative Extension Rebecca Jinnette