Broadband policy in the United States has transformed markedly since I joined Next Century Cities in August 2020. Every state now has a broadband office, up from about half in 2020; millions more residents have a home broadband subscription; and local communities continue leading the broadband market in speed, price, and customer service. 

I have changed too. In August 2020, I had just graduated from Colorado Law and taken the Bar exam during a global pandemic. Despite my credentials, my first post-graduate job drew out my imposter syndrome faster than I ever could have imagined. I am forever grateful to my friends and colleagues who continued encouraging me even before I believed in myself. 

When I started as Policy Counsel, I never imagined that I would write a letter to all 50 state governors, author a 56 one-pager series, mentor broadband and digital equity fellows, and draft written Congressional testimony. I’ve had the incredible privilege of connecting with passionate broadband advocates in-person in D.C., Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Indiana, Michigan, and California, and countless more online. 

In telling community stories through monthly blog posts, organizing webinars, and filings, I had the opportunity to meet many of the local leaders who I read about as a law student. Throughout my time at NCC, I have been blessed to watch the people who were once my heroes become my friends and colleagues. 

The past four years have been nothing short of a dream come true. 

Out of all the relationships built during my tenure at NCC, I am particularly inspired by Brittany-Rae and Ryan, who joined Francella and Lukas in rebuilding Next Century Cities from a staff of one to a team of five. Throughout leadership transitions, life changes, and an endless to-do list, my colleagues lead with unwavering authenticity and commitment. Stacey, Brian, and Roxy all brought an unmatched energy to NCC that expanded our reach to people who have been historically excluded from broadband policy discussions. 

While I can only dream of what the future holds, I will forever aspire to build something as beautiful as what my colleagues and I have created through Next Century Cities. 

Please keep in contact with me on LinkedIn and reach out via email if you are interested in partnering on future projects.