In an effort to raise awareness of the importance of high-speed broadband access and assist residents throughout the region who desire improved service, Jefferson College will host a “Need for High Speed” community forum and expo on Tuesday, October 12, from 7-9 p.m. in the Student Center on the Hillsboro campus.

     The public event will allow residents to ask questions and speak directly with a variety of broadband providers, while drawing attention to Jefferson County’s need for high-speed access in all homes and businesses.

     “To compete in today's global economy, we need the tools used in the global economy, including high speed broadband access,” said Jefferson College President Dr. Raymond Cummiskey. “High speed internet levels the playing field so that Jefferson County residents continue to live here and work anywhere!”

     The forum will include a brief panel discussion detailing the ways businesses and organizations rely on high-speed broadband, including Jefferson College, Jefferson Regional Medical Center, St. Pius High School, the Northwest School District, and Hopson Lumber. Audience members will also learn how to measure broadband connection speeds and receive a definition of “high speed.”

     Attendees will additionally receive information regarding a new $4.9 million Broadband Technology and Opportunity Program (BTOP) grant to establish 23 public computer “one-stop technology centers” for populations currently underserved by broadband internet. One of the new centers will be at Jefferson College.

     "Students today want electronic services, yet many of our students can only gain access to those services while on campus,” added Cummiskey “High speed broadband access allows us to bring Jefferson College courses to our students' homes.”

     The event will also feature an expo of hands-on demonstrations from each of the panel organizations and a variety of broadband vendors/service providers.

     In conjunction with the event, a “Need for High Speed” community broadband webpage will be launched as part of the JOIN-N (Jefferson Online Information Network) web site, enabling residents to check their residential connection speed, view service providers, and join the campaign to improve broadband service in Jefferson County.

     For more information about the “Need for High Speed” community broadband forum/expo, call (636) 797-3000 or 942-3000, extension 101.