Mayor Lioneld Jordan's Digital Inclusion Task Force welcomes Joanne Hovis, CEO of the Coalition for Local Internet Choice, for two public events on May 17.

Thursday morning at the Farmer's Market, the City of Fayetteville tent will host a meet and greet along with activities designed to raise awareness and start conversations about community digital equity. On Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Ms. Hovis will speak at the Fayetteville Public Library (401 W. Mountain Street). Her talk, "Advancing Digital Equity and Broadband Opportunities for Residents of Fayetteville" will take place in the Walker Room and will also stream live via Fayetteville Public Library's live stream.

Ms. Hovis is a legal expert who studies the value of public-private partnerships for improving the quality and distribution of access to the Internet. Her talk is intended to engage the whole community (not just technical experts) about strategies and opportunities for advancing high speed broadband for residents and business owners in Fayetteville.

All are invited as we welcome Joanne Hovis. Stay up to date, visit www.fayetteville-ar.gov/digitalinclusion.

The task force is chaired by Michelle Gibeault, English and communication librarian for the University of Arkansas Libraries, and is seeking input from residents who can help align partnerships, identify opportunities for collaboration and guide program implementation. U of A students, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate.