Joey Wender

💙Tomorrow is #GivingTuesday! We’re rallying to raise $25,000 to #ProtectUSF — the program that keeps students, library patrons, and patients connected to opportunity, education, and healthcare nationwide. Support our mission and spread the word: shlb.rallyup.com/shlb2025gt

At #AnchorNets2025, we’re diving into one of the hottest topics in broadband policy: AI in Education. We will unpack: > AI in the Classroom > Ethics in AI > Real-world Applications Be part of the conversation shaping how AI transforms education! 🎟️shlb.org/anchornets-2025

Broadband is at a crossroads: innovation is on the rise, but roadblocks remain. At #AnchorNets2025, we’ll tackle: ⚡ Edge Data Centers powering AI in rural America ⚡ Pole permitting delays stalling billions in funding Oct 29–31 | Crystal City 👉 shlb.org/anchornets-2025

We’re bringing together three powerhouse voices shaping the future of connectivity, literacy, and digital opportunity: > @JRosenworcel > @AGomezFCC > @TracieDHall1 October 29–31 | Crystal City, VA 👉Register today: shlb.org/anchornets-2025

Last week, SHLB toured @chipublib’s Harold Washington Library—1M sq. ft. dedicated to learning & connection. From the award-winning YOUmedia teen space to digital support for older adults & expansive online services, the library is advancing digital opportunity for all.

SHLB was proud to host a reception honoring the work of state broadband leaders. It was wonderful to gather with so many leaders from across the country—many of whom are working tirelessly amid challenging times to bring high-speed internet to the communities that need it most.

SHLB Executive Director @jawender visited @cadl Leslie Branch in Michigan. Thank you to Sheryl Knox and Jeff Antaya for hosting and sharing how essential E-Rate and reliable connectivity are for their library system and the communities they serve.

Today, the @USSupremeCourt upheld the constitutionality of the USF, a huge win for students, libraries, healthcare providers, and rural communities nationwide. As a named party in the case, SHLB is proud to have helped defend the programs that keep millions connected.

Today, SHLB's ED @jawender visited @barbarabushlib alongside branch manager Shane Harris & SHLB Board Member Ty Beauchamp. Part of @harriscountypl, the library is a vibrant community hub offering digital literacy programs, creative technology tools, and early learning resources.

🚀#AnchorNets2025 is where real broadband & connectivity solutions take shape, like: ✅ AI-ready education ✅ Broadband funding ✅ Resilient infrastructure everywhere ✅ Cybersecurity for schools & healthcare Be part of the conversation: shlb.org/anchornets-2025

Early bird registration for #AnchorNets2025 is OPEN! One Pass. All Access. No add-ons or upgrades—one pass unlocks everything from keynotes to networking events. 📍Crystal City, VA 🗓️ Start noon on Oct 29 ➡️End 1 pm on Oct 31 Register now: shlb.org/anchornets-2025

Live from DC for SHLB’s first fly-in! Nearly 40 members are meeting with 70+ Congressional offices to advocate for the Universal Service Fund, E-Rate, and the Rural Health Care Program. Stay tuned for updates and photos from the Hill! #ProtectUSF

Our SHLB members are on the Hill and making moves to #ProtectUSF! From scheduled meetings to surprise hallway encounters, members nationwide are advocating for affordable and sustainable high-speed internet funding through E-Rate and the Rural Health Care Program.

Last night’s reception was a wonderful kickoff to SHLB’s first-ever fly-in! We celebrated a significant transition by welcoming @jawender as SHLB’s new E.D. and honoring John Windhausen for his years of visionary leadership. Thank you to everyone who attended! #ProtectUSF

SHLB’s new Executive Director, @jawender, hosted a Happy Hour at #ConnectedAmerica2025, bringing members together to discuss broadband’s future. Thanks to all who joined. It was a great way to continue the conversation beyond the conference sessions!

Joey Wender hit the ground running in his first week as SHLB’s Executive Director! On a Texas tour, he met broadband leaders and saw firsthand how E-rate helps fuel connectivity and learning at Wilemon STEAM Academy & Waxahachie HS.

Missed this morning’s press conference on defending the Universal Service Fund? Watch the full recording here: youtu.be/JQ0gpdvTYa0 Thanks @SenMarkey, @AGomezFCC, and broadband leaders from across the US who traveled to DC to advocate for digital opportunity for all.