U of A Students Receive Laptops Through Digitunity and AT&T Collaboration

Fifty-five University of Arkansas students with demonstrated financial need received refurbished laptop computers through a collaboration between Digitunity, AT&T and the U of A. The initiative provides students with reliable technology to support their educational journey and build confidence in today's digital world.

A personal computer has become fundamental to any student’s experience. From completing coursework and conducting research to reviewing course materials, communicating with instructors and peers, and participating in online learning environments, technology is woven into nearly every aspect of academic life. These refurbished laptops will help ensure students facing financial barriers have the tools needed to fully engage in their education.

University staff coordinated the application and distribution process for qualifying students before the start of the fall semester. By providing students with a reliable computer before classes begin, the university helps ensure they are prepared to participate fully in the academic experience from the first day of the semester.

Julia Smith (right) and Taylor Wyatt prepare and test refurbished laptops to ensure they are ready for University of Arkansas students before the start of the fall semester. (Photo by Brandon Ngo)

“Receiving a laptop through this process has been an important step toward increased preparation and confidence for the new undergraduate students in this group at the start of their first semester,” said Don Nix, scholarship programs director in the Office of Student Success.

"It has been such a privilege to work on this project and to provide students with laptops who really needed them,” said Julia Smith, associate director of graduate student support. “Although we encourage every student with aspirations of receiving a college degree to pursue those desires, we understand that it is extremely expensive to do so. It is nice that, with AT&T and Digitunity's help, we could help ease that cost for some of our students!"

The donation is part of the 3 Southern States Connected Communities Program, which supports organizations working to expand access to technology and digital skills resources throughout Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Through the program, local organizations help connect residents with refurbished computers, digital skills training and support that enables greater participation in education, employment, health care and everyday life.

"Digitunity is honored to work alongside organizations like the University of Arkansas and AT&T that understand computer ownership is not just about technology — it is about opening doors to education, employment and greater opportunity. By helping students leave today with laptops of their own, the University of Arkansas is removing a significant barrier and giving them a tool they can continue using as they complete their education, build new skills and prepare for what comes next," said Scot Henley, executive director of Digitunity.

Don Nix (left), director of the ASAP Bridge Program and Student Support Services, and Jacob Garrett (right), regional director of external affairs for AT&T Arkansas, inspect laptop computers that will help connect U of A students with the technology they need for academic success. (Photo by Brandon Ngo)

This effort is part of AT&T’s initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.

"Strong digital skills open doors for everyone in our communities," said Jacob Garrett, regional director of External Affairs, AT&T-Arkansas. "Through this collaboration with the University of Arkansas and Digitunity, we're making it easier for students to get hands-on with technology and tap into all the amazing opportunities and resources the internet offers."

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $3 billion to Arkansas’ economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.

About Digitunity: Computer ownership is essential for education, employment, healthcare, and full participation in the modern economy. Yet nearly 33 million people in the United States don't have a computer of their own. Digitunity is a national nonprofit organization building a coordinated system to make computer ownership possible for everyone. By connecting retired technology from businesses and government with trusted community organizations nationwide, we're pursuing a future where everyone has the technology to participate, compete, and prosper.

About Philanthropy at AT&T: At AT&T, our corporate responsibility work is dedicated to bridging the digital divide across the country. We are committed to providing people of all ages and from every community with the essential resources they need to thrive in the digital era. For generations, we have supported programs that impact millions of individuals nationwide, and since 2021, we have committed $5 billion to initiatives that enhance connectivity, promote digital literacy, and improve access to high-speed internet. Our efforts particularly focus on uplifting underserved communities, including students, older adults, and un- or underemployed individuals, ensuring everyone can participate in the digital world and benefit from its opportunities.