2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Evaluating Integrated Telecommunications Strategies for Digital Inclusion in HBCU and Anchor Community

Presented at Minorities in Engineering Division(MIND) Technical Session 5

The world is a global society driven by digital connectivity which is key to education, employment, healthcare, and civic engagement. Amid post-pandemic hybrid learning and federal broadband investments, integrated telecom strategies are pivotal to convert access into sustained adoption. This work in progress examines how targeted federal government investments Program can enhance digital equity at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and its surrounding community.The digital divide, characterized by unequal access to broadband, devices, and digital skills, remains a barrier to opportunities, in marginalized populace. However, the Federal government initiative launched and funded for equipment, broadband services, infrastructure upgrades and training. Yet, adoption and sustained impact are uneven, a gap this study will address. The aim is to evaluate how integrated telecommunications strategies at HBCU and its anchor community affect digital inclusion outcome, with meticulous attention to effectiveness, sustainability and replicability. The Conceptual research is anchored on Diffusion of Innovations Theory, which explains how new technologies disseminate through social systems, and is complemented by aspects of the Technology Acceptance Model to understand user perception. Methodologically, this study will employ a quantitative component analysis which will draw from a defined sampling frame (target N = 750) including students and community beneficials. Data sources include WiFi telemetry data, device distribution record, broadband code redemption data, and training assessment and attendance book, supplemented by validated survey instruments measuring digital skills, self-efficacy, and adoption readiness. Qualitative insights will be obtained from focus groups and key informant interviews. Statistical analysis for comparisons, regression models will assess outcome changes, and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval and informed consent will ensure ethical compliance; this also compares results across demographic segments. The expected outcome is a validated framework, technically and socially for scaling integrated telecommunications interventions in HBCUs and anchor communities. Ultimately, the research contributes to bridging the gap between access and adoption, supporting long-term digital inclusion in historically underserved settlements.

Authors

Adeyemi Jerry Ibiyemi Morgan State University [biography]

I am a civil engineer with expertise in pavement construction, materials testing, and safety management. From 2016 to 2020, I managed engineering projects for Aniyikaye General Contractor with Nigeria Breweries, ensuring timely delivery and strict safety compliance. From 2021 to 2025, I worked in quality assurance and engineering roles at Craneburg Construction. Currently, I am pursuing advanced civil engineering studies at Morgan State University with a focus on transportation and structures. I hold safety certifications and am a member of ASCE and ASEE.
Olayinka Olawale Olaniyan Morgan State University [biography]

Olayinka Olawale Olaniyan is a distinguished civil engineer with over 12 years of professional experience in construction and the oil and gas sectors. He has successfully delivered numerous building, road, and infrastructure projects across Nigeria. He is currently pursuing an M.Sc. in Civil Engineering at Morgan State University, where he serves as a Research Assistant in Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Engineering under Dr Oludare Owolabi. He is a COREN-registered engineer and a proud member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
Feyisayo Sarah Akinbobola http://orcid.org/0009-0000-5559-5767 Towson University [biography]

Feyisayo Akinbobola is a doctoral student in Instructional Technology at Towson University and a Graduate Research Assistant at the Faculty Academic Center of Excellence (FACET). With a background in Science Education, her work bridges STEM education, instructional design, and digital accessibility. Her research focuses on the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to support inclusive and equitable learning in engineering and higher education contexts. She is particularly interested in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), assistive technologies, and faculty adoption of innovative teaching practices to enhance student engagement and access in STEM disciplines.
Julius Ogaga Etuke http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2710-2803 Morgan State University [biography]

Julius Ogaga Etuke is a civil engineer with over 15 years of experience in consulting, academia, and project leadership, specializing in sustainable infrastructure, structural design, and transportation resilience. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Morgan State University, where he serves as a Research Assistant in Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure Engineering. His research integrates virtual and augmented reality, climate adaptation, and data-driven modeling to enhance disaster preparedness and risk mitigation in transportation systems. A COREN-registered engineer and member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Julius has led multidisciplinary teams, conducted impactful research, and delivered consultancy services that advance sustainable infrastructure development in Nigeria.
Dr. Olushola V. Emiola-Owolabi http://orcid.org/https://0000-0002-8521-5769 Morgan State University [biography]

Olushola Emiola-Owolabi is an engineering pedagogy specialist, researching active learning in engineering classrooms and specializing in qualitative methods research on teaching and learning – particularly in remote synchronous learning environments.
Dr. Oludare Adegbola Owolabi P.E. Morgan State University [biography]

Dr. Oludare Owolabi, a professional engineer in Maryland, joined the Morgan State University faculty in 2010. He is the director of the Sustainable Infrastructure Development, Smart Innovation and Resilient Engineering Research Lab, Department of Civil Engineering at Morgan State University.
Dr. Uttam Gaulee http://orcid.org/0000-0002-3010-2812

Note

The full paper will be available to logged in and registered conference attendees once the conference starts on June 21, 2026, and to all visitors after the conference ends on June 24, 2026

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