American Connection Corps

The Nation’s Largest Fellowship Program Focused on Bridging the Digital Divide

We are helping to address the digital divide with boots on the ground in heartland communities. The American Connection Corps will empower a new generation of leaders to help bring connectivity to their hometowns, addressing a critical need and retaining young talent.

Meet Our Fellows

Heartland Forward’s American Connection Corps fellows making a difference

Our American Connection Corps fellows’ are working in cities and rural towns across Arkansas, Illinois, Ohio and Tennessee, with organizations spearheading digital equity in their local communities. We are helping them launch digital literacy and affordability initiatives that the fellows will design to reach key groups, from senior residents to elementary school teachers, with the skills and devices they need to thrive in the digital age.

  • Hosea Born

    Magnolia, AR

    Southwest Arkansas Planning and Development District

  • Edgar Cabezas

    Chicago, IL

    Latinx Digital Leaders Now

  • Grace Clucas

    Peoria, IL

    Greater Peoria Economic Development Council

  • Allison Dougan

    Marion County, AR

    Arkansas Forward

  • Mary Gay

    Glen Carbon, IL

    Leadership Council Southwest Illinois

  • Katie Herbert

    Mercer County Board, IL

    Mercer County

  • Elizabeth Lima

    Columbus, OH

    Rural LISC

  • Kathy Lofton

    Memphis, TN

    Innovate Memphis

  • Maddie Long

    Little Rock, AR

    Little Rock Mayor’s Office

  • Hannah Maurice

    Knoxville, TN

    Knoxville Chamber of Commerce

  • Reid Sharkey

    Nashville, TN

    Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development

Join Us

We are always looking to expand our network of partners to collaborate on our initiatives and workshops.

Get in Touch