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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently announced the selection of a two-time Kentucky State University alumna as the chair for its Communications Equity and Diversity Council (CEDC). 

Heather Gate earned a Bachelor of Science in computer science as well as a master’s degree in computer science and public administration from Kentucky State. Gate also serves as the vice president of digital inclusion at Connected Nation. According to its website, “Connected Nation is a nonprofit, 501(c)3, working to develop and provide tools, resources, and methods to help local communities, states, and federal agencies create and implement solutions to their broadband (high-speed internet) and digital technology gaps.”

According to the FCC public notice, “Ms. Gate is uniquely qualified to assume leadership of the CEDC with its new emphasis on the tech sector given her long tenure working on a myriad of complex issues surrounding broadband adoption and inclusion. Ms. Gate previously served as vice chair of the ACDDE and as chair of the ACDDE’s Digital Empowerment and Inclusion Working Group.”

The committee’s “mission is to focus on diversity and equity issues across the tech sector. This committee will provide the Commission recommendations on advancing equity in the provision of and access to digital communication services and products for all people of the United States,” according to the public notice.    

Click here to read more about Gate and her new appointment.