Dr. Roberto Gallardo is the Vice President for Engagement at Purdue University. He is an Agricultural Economics associate professor and holds an electronic and communications engineering undergraduate degree, a master's in economic development, and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration. He is the author of the book “Responsive Countryside: The Digital Age & Rural Communities.”

He assisted the state of Indiana implement their broadband programs acting as their Next Level Broadband Connections Director for six months and he is now spearheading Indiana’s first digital equity plan. Dr. Gallardo is also working with his team to evaluate the impact of the Economic Development Administration $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge program and is partnering with the Indiana University Public Policy Institute.

Dr. Roberto Gallardo plays a crucial part in the Purdue Broadband Team. This team aims to harness the power of Indiana’s land-grant institution to help expand broadband access, adoption, and use as an essential catalyst for economic growth in the state. The federal government, in partnership with states, is deploying broadband funds through the Broadband Equity, Adoption, and Deployment program, also known as BEAD. Indiana is receiving close to $870 million starting mid to late 2024. A map put together by the Federal Communications Commission or FCC, the government entity that regulates telecommunications, will dictate where these funds go.

Follow these links to make sure Indiana’s broadband map is as accurate as possible.

Run Speed Test: https://pcrd.purdue.edu/speedtest/

Affordable Connectivity Program: https://www.fcc.gov/acp

Indiana Connectivity Program: https://www.in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp/?_ga=2.178659300.1594573730.1701961704-171136276.1681841978