I am an educator and library leader deeply committed to equity, innovation, and community. As Assistant Librarian and Student Resource Center leader at Northeastern Technical College, my work has centered on ensuring students—especially nontraditional learners in rural Southern communities—have the resources, access, and support they need to thrive.

My doctoral research explores how limited internet access impacts academic persistence for nontraditional students at rural Southern technical colleges. Grounded Van Dijk’s Digital Divide Framework, my study investigates the real consequences of broadband disparities. This work matters because access to reliable internet is no longer optional—it determines whether students can enroll, participate, and succeed in higher education.

Beyond my academic research, I actively lead initiatives to close digital divides through library services, open educational resources (OER), and digital literacy training. I believe technology should empower communities, not exclude them.