Dr. Fallon S. Wilson
A recipient of numerous accolades, including multiple Webby Awards, Dr. Wilson’s work has been recognized by institutions such as the World Economic Forum and the Kapor Center for Social Impact. She is a member of the World Economic Forum's Edison Alliance, an Advisory Board Member for the Siegel Family Endowment Research Advisory Council, a member of the Digital Equity Research Center Advisory Board, and a Founder and Member of Sistas 4 Digital Equity. Her research and advocacy are not just about data and public policy; they also involve personal stories and experiences. They are about ensuring that Black communities thrive in the evolving tech landscape. Her work aims to build a more equitable future where historically disadvantaged populations lead in responsible computing and digital inclusion.
Recently, she was recommended for a $12 million grant from the Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) under the Digital Equity Act.
Dr. Fallon S. Wilson is a visionary Public Interest Technologist with over 15 years of experience leveraging technology for social equity, particularly within Black tech ecosystems and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She is the Co-Founder and Lead Principal Investigator of the #BlackTechFutures Research Institute, where she has been pivotal in advancing Black tech ecosystems in southern U.S. cities like Houston, Nashville, Memphis, and Birmingham. Dr. Wilson’s work includes launching a Black Public Interest Technology (PIT) summer training program for 20% of HBCUs and creating Black Tech Policy Week, a national dialogue that attracts over 6,000 attendees. Her initiatives aim to promote tech equity, digital access, and workforce development for underrepresented communities, with a strong focus on building inclusive AI futures.
She holds a PhD in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Chicago, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Spelman College. Dr. Wilson's leadership extends to her role as Vice President of Policy at the Multicultural Media, Telecom, and Internet Council, where she has spearheaded national campaigns such as "Black Churches 4 Digital Equity" and advised on digital equity strategies with federal stakeholders, including President Biden. Recently, she launched the National Juneteenth Digital Equity Bible Study with 10,000 people tuning in online and in person to build a movement for digital equity.