"Connected Tennessee will ensure that we have the broadband foundation and computer literacy so that Tennesseans everywhere can realize the opportunities that are possible when all communities are truly connected."

Phil Bredesen
Tennessee Governor

___________________________________________ "Broadband expansion is to the 21st century what rural electrification was to the 20th century. High-speed Internet access is critically important to Tennessee’s future, especially in jobs, education and healthcare." Tennessee Broadband Task Force

___________________________________________

"Connected Tennessee is working to continue to bridge the gap between those who have access to high-speed Internet and those who don’t to not only cultivate increased tourism, but also to provide access to better healthcare, improved education, more business options and better interaction with government."

Susan Whitaker
Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

___________________________________________

"Technology is a critical component to business growth and expansion. We must work to level the technology playing field in our rural communities in order for them to more effectively compete in today's marketplace."

Matt Kisber
Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Economic
and Community Development

__________________________________________

"With Connected Tennessee’s Computers 4 Kids program, we are able to give some deserving kids their own computer to help them build the skills that will be critical to their future success as they enter either college or the work place."

Mark Bengel
Chief Information Officer, State of Tennessee

__________________________________________

"We are proud to support the Computers 4 Kids program to allow at-risk children in our state better access to global education resources."

Gregg Morton
President, AT&T Tennessee

___________________________________________

"Computers 4 Kids continues to transform lives across Tennessee. Computer skills are vital in today’s global economy. This is a great program to help all families, regardless of income, meet educational and professional needs."

Speaker Kent Williams
Tennessee House of Representatives

_______________________________________

"The citizens of Pulaski and Giles County understand the importance of broadband technology and its potential positive impact on every aspect of our lives. Connected Tennessee's approach will educate and empower citizens and will help us discover new and exciting applications for broadband."

Giles County Mayor Dan Speer

_______________________________________

"Connected Tennessee has helped us make a difference as we attempt to put our citizens on the information highway. Broadband allows us to progress and create jobs and have continued opportunities for our citizens. Projected results – The world becomes our marketplace.”

Lincoln County Mayor Peggy G. Bevels

___________________________________________

"The digital divide is a concern in both the urban and rural areas of East Tennessee and the Computers 4 Kids program is designed to meet both of those challenges."

Cocke County Mayor Iliff McMahon

_______________________________________

"DCS has been very fortunate to partner with Connected Tennessee, who shares our mission to empower youth and young adults. We see the Computers 4 Kids program as a springboard for opportunity.  We are not just talking about a connection to the Web, but a connection to the infinite and meaningful impact that knowledge, learning and access have on the lives of us all.”

Lane Simpson
Program Director, Department of Children's Services