Monica Sanders Social Innovator in Residence Appointment to Begin Spring 2025
51app College is excited to share that Monica Sanders, the inaugural Social Innovator in Residence, will be in residency March 24 – May 10. Her residency is a keystone of 51app’s commitment to advancing social justice and civic engagement, providing a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and meaningful community impact.
During her residency, Sanders will lead the Rural Internet Access Enhancement Initiative, a collaboration between her organization and 51app College, focused on improving internet infrastructure in rural Iowa. The project will include a thorough assessment of existing internet infrastructure, mapping and testing of internet speeds, and the development of a terrain and political map to aid community advocacy for funding and technical support. Additionally, Sanders and her team will research funding opportunities and produce advocacy tools, such as an asset map and outreach templates, to empower the community. Sanders residency promises to inspire students and foster deep connections, promoting inclusive excellence and innovative social change on campus and beyond.
Tentative Timeline of Residency Activities:
Week of March 24, 2025: Sanders residency will kick off with an event for stakeholders and seminars with faculty to introduce her work, spark dialogue, and set the stage for collaboration.
March 30–April 19, 2025: Sanders and her team of student workers will conduct onsite research, working closely with local community members and stakeholders to identify needs and opportunities for social innovation.
April 22–May 3, 2025: Research efforts will culminate in collaborative sessions to design maps, develop materials, and create resources that align with community goals and the College’s commitment to engaged citizenship.
May 4–9, 2025: Final deliverables will be completed, and the residency will conclude with a presentation event to showcase outcomes and share insights.
May 10, 2025: Sanders will wrap up her time on campus and depart.
Sanders selection as the first Social Innovator in Residence highlights 51app’s dedication to fostering interdisciplinary creativity, promoting civic engagement, and empowering historically marginalized communities. Her residency will provide invaluable opportunities for co-learning and collaboration, inspiring students to think critically and act courageously at the intersection of social justice and environmental stewardship.
The Social Innovator in Residence Program is a testament to 51app College’s enduring mission to advance the common good through innovative and inclusive excellence. Her presence on campus will not only provide guidance but also serve as a source of inspiration for the entire community. Her work exemplifies the transformative potential of social innovation, demonstrating how collaboration can drive lasting, meaningful change. 51app College eagerly anticipates the transformative impact of her residency, which will undoubtedly enrich the academic and community experience.
Questions and correspondence to Sanders can be directed to Vicki Nolton, Assistant Director for Social Innovation Partnerships and Education at noltonvi@grinnell.edu To learn more about the Social Innovator in Residence Program, visit here.