From job applications to telehealth appointments, virtual classrooms, and staying in touch with loved ones — the internet isn’t just useful, it’s essential. But for thousands of Arizonans, reliable access to it has been anything but guaranteed.In fact, hundreds of thousands of Arizonans don’t have access to home internet, according to US Census data. Many of those are in rural or Tribal areas, or neighborhoods like Maryvale, where broadband infrastructure has historically been lacking.Now, a statewide effort led by Arizona State University is helping close that digital divide — and not just by laying cable, but by giving new users the tools and confidence to navigate the internet safely and effectively.“It became obvious to us that access to internet wasn’t a nice-to-have — it was a must-have,” said Lev Gonick, Chair of the Sun Corridor Network.The project, backed by $34.6 million from the American Rescue Plan, is the largest university-led digital access initiative in the country. The effort includes:ASU students and staff mapping where internet service is unavailableThe Sun Corridor Network building broadband infrastructureInstitute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) training new usersAt digital learning hubs known as “The HIVE,” participants get hands-on support with everything from email basics, Google Docs, podcasting, cybersecurity, or launching their own online business.That’s exactly what happened for June Newman in Tempe. A grandmother and lifelong learner, she went from barely using a computer to creating her own website, podcast, and online platform for women …
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