CORVALLIS, Ore. — In a state where digital connectivity is increasingly essential, the Oregon Broadband Equity Coalition (OBEC) has spent the past year making significant strides working with community leaders to think about and be prepared for the topics required to fully realize the investments in broadband infrastructure currently being made across the state.

OBEC launched on February 27, 2024, through a partnership between the Oregon State University Division of Extension and Engagement, Link Oregon and Rural Prosperity Partners. What began as a collaboration between a few key organizations has since evolved into a coalition of community groups, Tribal Nations, internet service providers, business leaders and government representatives.

“As a founding member of OBEC, Link Oregon is thrilled to observe its evolution into a dynamic community committed to dismantling digital barriers across our state so that all Oregonians can participate fully in our connected society,” said Molly Thurston, chief of staff at Link Oregon. “This network of engaged digital inclusion advocates and practitioners have shared innovative solutions tailored for specific populations, while finding commonalities that strengthen the efforts of the entire community.”

“We envision a digitally equitable Oregon where broadband access is not just about infrastructure, but a catalyst for positive change in people’s lives.”

The coalition’s work addresses the urgent need for increased broadband connectivity, particularly in Oregon’s rural areas. According to Broadband Now, urban Multnomah County enjoys 98.7% access to high-speed internet — at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) — while rural Lake County sits at just 42.3% with access to 100 Mbps.

“We envision a digitally equitable Oregon where broadband access is not just about infrastructure, but a catalyst for positive change in people’s lives,” said Lucas Turpin, OSU’s executive director for digital extension and inclusion.

OSU is embracing its land grant mission in the 21st century. Andrea Ballinger, OSU’s chief information officer and vice provost for university information and technology, partnered with the Division of Extension and Engagement to create a joint role focused on leveraging technology to expand OSU’s reach and promote the health and success of Oregonians and their communities by:

  • Promoting digital equity practices and organizing events, webinars and meetings to share best practices, raise awareness and help community members establish partnerships to address these topics.
  • Enhancing statewide research, education, health care and public service access by supporting schools, libraries, health care organizations and Tribal facilities. In February 2025, OSU launched an artificial intelligence initiative. The AI Oregon K-12 Collaborative is designed to help school administrators, tech support specialists and educators around the state learn how to prepare, implement and deliver AI education in Oregon schools.
  • Build partnerships and offerings where OSU can best fill gaps, promote cybersecurity awareness and AI readiness to champion workforce development — particularly around youths being exposed to and ready for the modern workforce. The Oregon Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (OCCoE) seeks to extend the center’s knowledge through OSU Extension’s expertise and expand its footprint across the state.
  • Over the past year, OBEC has made a tangible impact on digital equity efforts across Oregon. Monthly public meetings — held virtually via Zoom — foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The coalition has also focused on workforce and youth development through digital skills training and education initiatives.

“OBEC is stoking collaboration throughout the state of Oregon, and the participants are very engaged and open to working together,” said Jaleen Johnson, program manager at the Northwest Regional Telehealth Resource Center. “This is definitely due to wonderful leadership who is passionate and knowledgeable and ready to move and shake things up for all digital literacy and access expansion opportunities.”

Arlene Weible, a library consultant with the State Library of Oregon, credited OBEC for helping forge partnerships that provide digital skills training and device access in rural communities like Baker City, Talent and Stanfield.

Looking to the future, OBEC plans to increase its membership and impact across the state, ensuring no one is left behind. The coalition is also exploring the formation of a nonprofit to further its mission and strengthen its impact.

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