Connect Humanity
Samantha Schartman is currently the Director of Philanthropic Programs at Connect Humanity, where she leads the Appalachia Digital Accelerator program. Prior to this, she was a Broadband Program Specialist at the US Department of Commerce, NTIA, and the Executive Director at Marconi Society. With a background in digital equity and inclusion, Samantha has also served in various roles such as Chief Executive Officer at Connected Insights and Assistant Project Director at OneCommunity. Samantha has a MA in Cognitive Linguistics from Case Western Reserve University and a BFA in Visual Culture and Technology from Cleveland Institute of Art.
Connect Humanity
Connect Humanity is a nonprofit impact fund with a mission to advance digital equity. We provide tailored investments, strategic advice, and technical guidance to help underserved communities build the internet infrastructure needed to thrive. Since forming in 2021, we have partnered with 90 communities across 20 US states to develop digital access plans and catalyze +$45 million in community broadband investments. These efforts put 160,000 people on the path to fast, affordable internet connectivity. 100% of Connect Humanity's investments have focused on low-income, rural, and/or BIPOC communities, with 75% going to minority- or women-led ISPs. IA 50 Emerging Impact Manager, 2024