STC & AT&T Bridge the Digital Divide with Third Laptop Distribution in Starr County
In a continued effort to bridge the digital divide in the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas College (STC) and AT&T have once again joined forces to distribute 100 refurbished laptops to students in Starr County. This marks the third distribution this year, benefiting over 300 students and providing them with essential technology as the holiday season approaches.
Expanding Access Through Strategic Partnerships
This initiative is part of the broader AT&T Connected Learning Initiative, which aims to provide connectivity to more than 25 million people by 2030. To date, AT&T has invested $12 billion in building a world-class network, with nearly $10 million specifically allocated to Starr County. This commitment underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing digital skills and closing the technology gap in underserved areas.
STC Vice President Rodney Rodriguez emphasized the importance of digital literacy in today’s academic landscape. “Having digital skills and a connected device has never been more important. We are delighted to be part of this effort that will better equip our student community. We are grateful to our partners at AT&T for their ongoing support,” Rodriguez stated.
Identifying and Meeting Student Needs
The students selected for this distribution were primarily those who frequently borrowed devices from STC libraries, demonstrating a significant need for personal access to technology. The initiative ensures that students can now pursue their educational and employment goals without the hindrance of limited access to digital resources.
For Ammel Zamora, an STC Automotive Technology student, the distribution provides much-needed relief. Previously, Ammel shared a single laptop with his family, which posed challenges in completing academic assignments. “Having this new laptop is going to make reaching my educational goals easier. I’m so grateful for this blessing. Thank you so much, STC and AT&T, for this opportunity,” he expressed.
Similarly, STC Nursing student Jasmine Campos shared her gratitude for the technological relief the initiative offers, allowing her more time with family without compromising her studies.
Empowering Students and Communities
Community leaders, including STC Trustee Rose Benavidez, highlighted the broader impact of these laptop distributions, viewing them as crucial steps in empowering students to excel academically and contribute positively to their communities. “We know that there are challenges and a desperate need to be connected to the college and each other. We are grateful to AT&T for allowing us to provide this relief,” Benavidez remarked.
STC President Ricardo J. Solis echoed these sentiments, celebrating the distribution events as momentous occasions. “Our job is to help you succeed, and our partnership with AT&T is allowing us to better serve you with the technology you need. Students, you all are an inspiration, you make us proud,” Solis stated.
Local Impact and Future Prospects
For Valley residents, this initiative is more than just a distribution of laptops—it represents an ongoing commitment to educational accessibility and technological advancement. As the RGV community grapples with economic and educational disparities, partnerships like that of STC and AT&T offer a beacon of hope and progress.
Mario Barragan, AT&T’s representative, underscored the role of the distribution in addressing the digital divide. He noted that the laptops provide not just connectivity, but also a vital tool for achieving educational and career milestones. With continued efforts from STC and AT&T, the potential for further initiatives remains strong, fostering optimism for future community advancements.
As the initiative aligns with ongoing discussions about educational equity in South Texas, its impact transcends individual beneficiaries. By equipping students with necessary digital tools, the distribution reinforces the Rio Grande Valley’s quest for inclusive growth and development.
Resources and Further Information
For those interested in learning more about the program, future distribution events, or connecting with resources provided, both STC and AT&T encourage community members to engage through public forums and online platforms. Through this engagement, residents can stay informed and take advantage of opportunities designed to enhance educational and technological access in the region.
In conclusion, STC and AT&T’s collaborative effort is a significant stride towards closing the digital divide in Starr County. As the Rio Grande Valley moves forward, initiatives like this continue to highlight the community’s resilience and commitment to educational equity and technological empowerment.
