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Dominic Papa
Chief Government Relations Officer
Dominic Papa is a leader in digital equity and smart city initiatives, currently serving as the Chief Government Relations Officer at the Digital Equity Institute (DEI).3 He is an alumnus of Arizona State University and has been instrumental in advancing technological transformation in the Phoenix area.4
Papa co-founded The Connective, an organization aimed at creating a smart region by uniting 22 cities to innovate and procure technology together.1 He has been a key figure in establishing the Digital Equity Institute, which aims to provide digital equity innovation as a service for communities across Greater Phoenix.1
Some of Papa's notable achievements and roles include:
- Leading efforts to connect underserved communities with internet access, working laptops, and digital literacy training.1
- Advocating for a systems-based approach to solving the digital divide in Greater Phoenix.1
- Previously serving as the US Leader for Cloud Innovation Centers at Amazon Web Services.2
- Participating in panels and summits focused on smart cities and digital equity.2
Papa envisions a future where smart region innovations can lead to significant improvements in various sectors, including healthcare and urban planning.1
Highlights
🌟 Thrilled to Attend the 2024 Annual Conference by League of Arizona Cities and Towns! 🌟 This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with public sector leaders, learn about new initiatives, and collaborate on ways to improve our communities across Arizona. 🏙️🤝
I'm especially eager to share the work we're doing the the IDIA (Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration) to close the digital divide through our network of HIVEs, where Community meets Technology. Our goal is to empower underserved communities with the technology and skills they need to thrive in the digital age. 📡💻
If you're passionate about digital inclusion or interested in learning how our HIVES are making a difference, let's connect! I would love to discuss how we can collaborate to ensure all Arizonans have access to the digital tools and opportunities they deserve. 🌟
#CloseTheDigitalDivide Erin Carr-Jordan, Ph.D. Stephanie LaBorde Pierotti Luis Angel Morfin Diana M. Bowman Derek Masseth Will Novak
IDIA (Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration) went Down Under thanks to the inaugural Allan "Bud" Selig Sports Law and Business Program Study Abroad program in Melbourne, Australia! 🇦🇺 A huge thank you to Aaron Hernandez and Diana M. Bowman for making this experience possible!
A recurring theme throughout our visit was the importance of #DigitalEquity in #SmartCities. As we explore the future of cities in this Fourth Industrial Revolution, it's crucial that these advancements not only enhance digital accessibility for all but also ensure that cultural experiences are inclusive. In a place like Melbourne, where sport is a significant part of the cultural fabric, it's essential that everyone has access to these cultural experiences, both physically and digitally.
From celebrating a St Kilda Football Club win at Marvel Stadium to discussing the intricacies of sports law with the AFL - Australian Football League's legal team, our experiences underscored how sports serve as a unifying force. At the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, we learned about the rich history of tennis, and at the PGA of Australia, we explored strategies for increasing participation and diversity in golf. We also witnessed the athleticism and artistry of The Australian Ballet, showcasing how sports and performing arts can coexist and thrive.
This trip was a powerful reminder that as we build smarter cities, we must also build more equitable and inclusive ones. Sports—a cornerstone of Australian culture—must be accessible to all, embodying the spirit of #community and #inclusivity.
To all the new friends and colleagues we met along the way, it was a pleasure connecting over our shared passion for sports and culture. #ForksUp and here's to leaving a legacy of inclusivity and equity around the world!
Erin Carr-Jordan, Ph.D. Lev Gonick Derek Masseth Sally Phillips Peta Allan Stacy Leeds Matthew Arvay Daniel Gutwein Richard McHattie TJ Mitchell Zachary S. Laura Etter Dr. Sanjeev Khagram Thunderbird School of Global Management Stephanie LaBorde Pierotti Josh Thompson Annissa Furr Ph.D. Luis Angel Morfin
