Kyla Williams Tate | Director of Digital Equity
Cook County Government-Office of the President

Kyla Williams Tate is a visionary leader at the forefront of digital equity initiatives, currently serving as the inaugural Director of Digital Equity for Cook County Government in the Office of President Toni Preckwinkle. Under Kyla's leadership, Cook County launched its first-ever Digital Equity Action Plan and Digital Equity Map to advance its digital equity goals and create a growing and thriving digital equity ecosystem. In January 2025, the National Digital Inclusion Alliance selected Cook County as a Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer for its digital inclusion efforts for the second consecutive year. Kyla's recent distinction as a Marjorie & Charles Benton Opportunity Fund Fellow demonstrates her expertise and leadership abilities. In this fellowship, Kyla is a part of the Equitable Broadband in Urban America Research Group, a multi-city, multi-methods project that provides actionable insights about improving broadband in urban areas. Her work with state and federal policymakers, local governments, and digital equity champions is crucial in continuing to build digital equity in these communities. As part of this fellowship, Kyla launched the Digital Determination Podcast, a platform that explores the intersection of trust, digital discrimination, and digital adoption among descendants of the Great Migration. Kyla has excelled in various tech-focused positions, sharing her expertise in organizational leadership, digital inclusion, and advocacy. Her commitment to promoting digital literacy and expanding broadband access has transformed communities and enhanced opportunities for underserved populations. Before joining Cook County, Kyla worked for the Smart Chicago Collaborative, the implementation team for the City of Chicago's Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP).