The Pratt's equity work, from computer to community

Newsletter for February 19, 2024

In today's coverage, we've got continued proof that Baltimore is a leading data city. The Enoch Pratt Free Library has launched a new dashboard that supports that notion. Also, last week we all said our goodbyes to longtime Technical.ly staffer, Julie Zeglen. She's off to another publication and our CEO, Chris Wink reflected on that change in our newsroom in our Builders column. See that below too.

— Alanah, Technical.ly lead reporter for Baltimore

In this article, you'll learn about the Enoch Pratt Free Library's efforts to advance equity beyond datasets and into the community. M’Balu “Lu” Bangura, the library's director of equity and fair practices, discussed the institution's commitment to inclusive community engagement and service delivery with Technical.ly a few weeks ago. Initiatives such as the recently launched Advancing Equity Dashboard highlight the library system's focus on developing and implementing projects that promote equity in Baltimore City.

➡️ Find out more about this story in my full report here.

Even Technical.ly CEO Chris Wink admits to feeling resentful and brooding during a former staffer's farewell event, despite the coworker being someone he admired and mentored. He regrets not fully participating in celebrating the departing coworker's contributions to the team culture.

This column, timed with longtime Technical.ly editor Julie Zeglen's own recent departure, emphasizes the importance of responding with grace when a long-tenured employee calls it quits. Is every departure an opportunity for the organization to reflect on its culture?

➡️ Find out more about this story in my full report here.

• Did you know that the Baltimore Ravens employs a team of makers? The Ravens are one of only two NFL teams that maintain in-house shops for tailoring, customizing and repairing player and staff gear. [LinkedIn/Instagram]

• Innovators of Progress pre-accelerator has announced its 2024 cohort. This is its first year welcoming students from Morgan State University. [Mailchimp]

• Applications for PLACE Builders, a fellowship program commemorating the legacy of Pava LaPere, former CEO and cofounder of EcoMap Technologies, will open on Feb. 19. The deadline for submissions is March 3. The fellowship has received over $23,000 from 80+ supporters, toward a $100,000 target by the cohort's initial gathering on April 6. [Forward Cities]

• Elkridge-based company Backpack Healthcare, known for providing online counseling to children, has been chosen by the federal government to join a responsible AI-focused consortium comprising universities, government bodies and private companies like Google and Meta. [Maryland Inno/Source 2]

• Wide Angle Youth Media will use its money from the 2023 BCIT's Digital Equity Fund's Education and Outreach Grant to support its Baltimore Speaks program. [LinkedIn]