From rural training hubs to statewide innovation policy, Arizona’s digital future is being built by the people who connect communities.
In a time when access to technology defines who can learn, work, and thrive, the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA) gathered Arizona’s leaders to shine a light on the people and ideas transforming connection into opportunity.
On May 6, 2025, at the stunning Desert Botanical Garden, IDIA hosted its fourth annual Lighting Up the Future Gala — a celebration of progress, partnership, and possibility. The evening honored changemakers expanding digital access across Arizona, sparked timely conversations about the future of work, and recognized those working every day to ensure all Arizonans have the tools to succeed.
“This work is about more than devices or fiber,” shared Dr. Erin Carr-Jordan, President & CEO of IDIA. “It’s about hope, dignity, and unlocking potential. The people we honored tonight are not just advancing access; they’re opening doors to lifelong opportunity.”
Arizona Mayors Highlight Local Impact
The Gala featured opening remarks from three Arizona mayors who have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of IDIA’s Technology Hives in their cities:
- Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix (virtual)
- Mayor Kevin Hartke, Chandler (virtual)
- Mayor Valerie Molina, Guadalupe (in person)
Each expressed how the Hives have served as vital access points for residents — delivering digital skills training, internet connectivity, and career readiness programs. Their remarks underscored the value of local innovation backed by statewide support, and how public-private collaboration is helping close the digital opportunity gap in their communities.
Keynote Speaker: Adrian Fontes
The evening’s keynote address came from Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a champion of civic engagement and technological modernization. Fontes shared reflections on the role that digital access plays in supporting democracy, workforce development, and lifelong learning. His remarks reinforced how access to information and opportunity empowers every Arizona resident to participate fully in public life.
Spotlight Panel: AI, Innovation, and the Future of Work
The Gala featured a powerful lineup of voices offering insights on Arizona’s digital landscape — from broadband policy and community engagement to economic mobility and emerging technologies.
A standout moment of the evening was the featured panel, “AI, Innovation, and the Future of Work,” which brought together public and private leaders to explore how Arizona can prepare for a rapidly evolving digital economy. The panel included:
- Carlos Contreras, Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity for Governor Katie Hobbs
- Dr. Di Bowman, Senior Vice Dean, ASU College of Law
- Lev Gonick, Enterprise CIO of Arizona State University
Together, they addressed how artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, the importance of ethical frameworks for innovation, and the urgent need for inclusive workforce strategies. Moderator remarks highlighted the role of broadband infrastructure in unlocking statewide opportunity.
Beyond the panel, attendees heard from additional guest speakers who are advancing digital connection in every corner of Arizona and across the country, including Angela Siefer, Executive Director, National Digital Inclusion Alliance and Ian O’Grady, Policy Advisor to Governor Katie Hobbs.
Speakers emphasized the importance of meeting people where they are — through policy, technology, and on-the-ground community support — to ensure that all Arizonans can participate fully in the digital world.
Honoring Changemakers: 2025 Award Recipients
Each year, the Gala honors individuals who have made remarkable contributions to digital inclusion. This year’s recipients represent the best of service, innovation, and impact. This year, all honorees received formal Congressional Recognition, presented with a certificate from Congressman Greg Stanton acknowledging their exceptional contributions to expanding access, innovation, and opportunity throughout Arizona.
Lifetime Achievement Award:
- John Windhausen Jr., Founder of the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition, for over 40 years of broadband policy leadership.
“The IDIA gala was a fabulous event. It was great to see that IDIA’s work has the support of the most senior policymakers in Arizona and DC. The event showcased and paid tribute to the passionate hard work of digital inclusion practitioners across the state. I loved feeling the positive energy from the speakers and the audience. Congrats on a very successful event!”
— John Windhausen Jr., Lifetime Achievement Honoree
Impact Awards:
- Dr. Nicol Turner-Lee, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institute, for her research on broadband equity and AI policy.
- Matthew Rantanen, Indigenous broadband advocate, for his groundbreaking work with Tribal Broadband Bootcamps.
Community Champion Awards:
- Dr. Reetika Dhawan, Arizona Western College, for bridging rural education and workforce development in Yuma.
- Roberto Del Real, Director of Digital Equity at Chicanos Por La Causa, for community community engagement and expanding access to healthcare.
- Mignonne Hollis, Executive Director, Arizona Regional Economic Development Foundation, for her economic empowerment efforts in rural Arizona.
Sponsors Who Power Progress
This year’s Gala was made possible thanks to the support of generous sponsors committed to bridging the digital divide:
- Platinum Sponsor: Google Fiber
- Gold Sponsors: Insight and Apple
- Bronze Sponsors: SRP, Verizon, Chicanos Por La Causa, Traversant Group
Together, we are shaping stronger, more connected communities.
Platinum Sponsor: Google Fiber is leading the charge in expanding high-speed, affordable internet access—an essential foundation for education, workforce readiness, and economic mobility.
Gold Sponsors: Insight and Apple
- Insight is transforming how communities access technology and support, helping individuals gain the tools and skills needed to thrive in a digital world.
- Apple is reimagining learning and creativity through inclusive technology and hands-on experiences that foster innovation, skill-building, and connection.
Bronze Sponsors: SRP is helping to power economic opportunity through sustainable infrastructure and community investment.
Verizon is driving access and innovation by supporting digital inclusion and workforce initiatives that uplift underserved populations.
Chicanos Por La Causa is a vital force in advancing equity, education, and economic empowerment for Latino communities and beyond.
Traversant Group brings public policy expertise that supports equitable digital transformation across Arizona’s most impacted communities.
Together, these organizations are not just sponsors; they are active changemakers helping shape a more inclusive, opportunity-rich future for all.
Lighting the Way for What’s Next
The Lighting Up the Future Gala offered more than recognition — it reaffirmed a shared commitment to building a connected future where everyone has the tools to thrive. From statewide leaders to grassroots advocates, the evening showcased what’s possible when innovation is paired with action.
As Arizona continues to expand access and opportunity, the stories celebrated at this year’s event serve as a reminder: meaningful progress is made through collaboration, courage, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible when we work together.
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