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SETDA Honors Angela Thi Bennett with the 2024 Federal Policymaker of the Year Award

October 31, 2024 (Washington, DC)SETDA, the principal membership association of U.S. state and territorial educational technology and digital learning leaders, announced NTIA Director of Digital Equity Angela Thi Bennett as the 2024 recipient of the SETDA Federal Policymaker of the Year Award. Although she could not be there in person to physically accept the award, she sent over a gracious acceptance video to virtually receive the award at the 2024 SETDA Leadership Summit this week in Arlington, VA.

The Federal Policymaker of the Year award, which is rooted in SETDA’s long tradition of seeking out exemplary leadership, recognizes elected and appointed policymakers at state and federal levels who have championed access to and effective use of technology in K-12 education. It honors policymakers who actively support digital learning opportunities for all students and engages with the broader education and policymaking communities to advocate for the role of technology in advancing education.

This year’s award honors Director Angela Thi Bennett for her instrumental role in launching the Digital Equity Act programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. As Director of Digital Equity at the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Bennett has been a dedicated advocate for digital inclusion, ensuring that states and grantees consider the needs of students and their families by embedding these priorities into funding requirements. She has also strengthened connections between the NTIA and the education sector, participating and speaking at events hosted by the Office of Educational Technology and other educational organizations.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this award from SETDA,” said Director Angela Thi Bennett. “As a member of multiple categories of the Covered Populations, this recognition holds special meaning for me. I am a living testament to how access to educational opportunities can have a transformational impact across multiple generations. This award reinforces my commitment to breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to experience the same life-changing power of education and digital connectivity.”

“At SETDA, we believe that empowering students and educators means more than providing connectivity—it’s about opening doors to real opportunities and advancing digital equity across the nation,” said Julia Fallon, Executive Director of SETDA. “Through our advocacy, partnerships, and forward-thinking initiatives, we’re dedicated to ensuring that all learners can benefit from the digital age. We’re thrilled to recognize Director Angela Thi Bennett with the 2024 SETDA Federal Policymaker of the Year Award for her exceptional commitment to bridging the digital divide and enhancing educational access for communities nationwide.”

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About SETDA

SETDA is the principal association representing U.S. state and territorial educational technology and digital learning leaders. Through a broad array of programs and advocacy, SETDA builds member capacity and engages partners to empower the education community in leveraging technology for learning, teaching, and school operations.

For more information, please visit our website https://www.setda.org or follow us on Twitter @SETDA.

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