October 21, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2025
Media Contact: Shakira Slaughter 📧 shakira@ellevategroup.us
Digital Equity Symposium Unites Nearly 200 Leaders to Bridge the Digital Divide
Chicago, IL – October 21, 2025 — Nearly 200 changemakers, educators, nonprofit leaders, and technology advocates gathered at Malcolm X College on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 for the inaugural Digital Equity Symposium, a dynamic, day-long event hosted during Digital Inclusion Week to advance access, awareness, and action around digital equity across Cook County.
Produced in partnership with the Cook County Office of the President, led by President Toni Preckwinkle, and the Cook County Digital Equity Office, the event served as a powerful call to action: to ensure that technology access, digital literacy, and broadband connectivity are available to every resident—regardless of zip code, income, or age.
President Toni Preckwinkle opened the day with a charge for collaboration and innovation, reminding attendees that “digital equity is not a privilege, it’s a necessity for participation in today’s society.” She was joined by President David A. Sanders of Malcolm X College, whose warm welcome set the tone for a day of inspiration, learning, and community connection.
Over the course of the day, participants engaged in a combination of sessions featuring more than 20 expert speakers and facilitators, exploring topics from AI and accessibility to broadband infrastructure, digital literacy, youth engagement, and the future of workforce readiness. The Symposium also celebrated Digital Equity Champions, honoring individuals and organizations leading the charge to close the digital divide through innovation, advocacy, and partnership.
The event’s planning and production were powered by The Ellevate Group, LLC, a Chicago-based consulting firm known for helping mission-driven organizations elevate their leadership, strengthen capacity, and create lasting community impact.
“Digital equity is about connection on all levels,” said Elle Davis, MSW, Founder and Chief Elevation Officer of The Ellevate Group. “It’s about ensuring that everyone, from our seniors to our students, can fully participate in a digital world that’s designed for all.”
The Symposium underscored a shared belief that digital inclusion is both an economic driver and a social justice issue. From the lively breakout sessions to the award presentations, attendees left feeling informed, inspired, and united around a shared mission to make digital access a right.
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