Creating Virtual Programming that Bridges the Digital Divide

Panel Discussion

It’s no secret that COVID-19 has highlighted and in some cases deepened the digital divide. Those without/with less access to internet and devices are being left further and further behind in the new normal. When our world went virtual, CGI had several STEM events focused on digital inclusion that now had to pivot to virtual or cancel completely. We also were asked to service in a consultative role through our local education system and through a statewide task force – both with a focus on inclusion and equity. CGI consultant Nicole Swan, STEM Administrative Coordinator Lashonda Dean, and Vice President Will LaBar, PMP, will share innovative solutions to the challenge of access. Panel moderated by U.S. STEM@CGI Manager Anne Swanson.

PANEL MODERATOR

Anne Swanson – Anne is the U.S. STEM@CGI Manager. She helped create the STEM@CGI program in 2017 and has been the program manager since that time. STEM@CGI exists in to introduce, inspire and mentor students underrepresented in STEM with a focus on girls, minorities, students with disabilities and the economically underserved. The program has served more than 11,000 students, including 150 through virtual events since March 2020. Anne is currently studying for the PMP.

PANELISTS

Nicole Swan – Nicole is a Total Compensation Leader at CGI where she has worked for 9 years. In 2019 and 2020, Nicole led an effort called “IT Girl Challenge” in Pittsburgh, PA, where teams of girls built apps to compete for a college scholarship. The effort started in person and ended virtually.

Lashonda Dean – Lashonda serves as the STEM@CGI administrative coordinator. Pre-COVID Lashonda helped STEM@CGI volunteer site leads plan and execute their STEM camps. Now Lashonda supports CGI’s new “STEM@CGI at Home” program and virtual initiatives lead by site leads across the U.S.

Will LaBar, PMP – Will is a 20 plus year CGI member. He is the Vice President of Onshore Delivery for CGI’s US operations overseeing seven CGI locations. He also serves at the STEM@CGI program sponsor. Will co-chairs the Governor’s Resilient Louisiana, Information Technology and Communications (ITC) Task Force that focuses on creating equitable ITC solutions to the challenges we face through COVID-19. He also served a technology consultant for “Link & Learn” – a program to ensure all Lafayette students have access to Internet – through the “Love Our Schools” Foundation in conjunction with the Lafayette Parish School System.

NOTE: This meeting is FREE and will be conducted totally online via ZOOM.

The meeting ZOOM link and login information will be sent to you in your email registration confirmation receipt. 

All are welcome to attend this meeting (members and non-members/guests).

MEETING AGENDA

5:30PM - 5:45PM | Introductions/Announcement/Acknowledgements

5:45PM - 6:45PM | Speaker/Panel Discussion Plus Q&A

6:45PM - 7:00PM | Announcement of Future Meetings/Events/Speakers & Training Opportunities

This meeting will count for 1.5 PDUs for PMI credential holders.

Talent Triangle: .75 PDUs "Leadership" - .75 PDUs "Strategic & Business Management" 

PDUs will be submitted for PMI Baton Rouge chapter members. 

All other PMI credential holders are responsible for self-reporting PDUs.