RCC Receives AT&T Digital Literacy Grant
Nov 13, 2015Rockingham Community College launched a new program designed to help adults succeed in a digital economy.
Underwritten by a $5,000 contribution from AT&T through its Digital Literacy Grant program, training in basic digital literacy skills for financially- and digitally- disadvantaged County residents is available. The four-week curriculum will enable students to earn a Microsoft Digital Literacy Certification while simultaneously learning and accessing computer technology for job seeking skills.
“Being digitally literate is not a skill that is reserved for our young people,” said Mark Richardson, Chairman of the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners. “Older adults also need technical training to be competent in today’s connected workplace. I applaud RCC for providing opportunities our citizens need to prepare them for success in jobs requiring technical skills.”
In addition to receiving a certificate of completion, each of the graduates will also receive a low-cost, refurbished, Wi-Fi enabled laptop computer.
“The goal of this program is to make a difference in our immediate community by helping self-motivated adults gain basic computer operating knowledge,” said President Dr. Mark O. Kinlaw, of RCC. “Access to technology, and the ability to effectively use that technology, are two sides of the coin which is the foundation of today’s economy.
Program partners with RCC include the Reidsville Housing Authority, Reidsville Area Foundation, and Rockingham County Education Foundation.
“At AT&T, we believe strongly in the importance of education as essential to a person’s future success, as well as the future of a community,” said Kathleen Evans, AT&T Regional Director for External Affairs. “We are all citizens of a digital world and this program will help prepare the students for success in a way they may not have thought possible. That’s an exciting prospect and AT&T appreciates the opportunity to be a part of making it happen.”
