danna mackenzie

Contributes the rural and county perspectives in developing policy recommendations to the Governor's Office and MN Legislature that move the state forward towards achieving the legislative goals of border-to-border broadband access.

Work with county commissioners from across the state to re-think how to deliver better, smarter, more effective local government services.

Created a member-owned co-op ISP at a time when Internet was not readily accessible to the businesses and citizens in Cook County. Transformed the cooperative into the go-to source for hyperlocal news and information. The co-op provides a much-needed local source for technical support, web development and hosting services.

Helped to build a virtual higher education institution in an area too small to sustain a bricks and mortar community college. From navigating the implementation of first-generation video conferencing, to contracting for on-site instructors, to crafting continued relevance and value in the era of increasing on-line education options.

Provided technical support and consulting services to area government and non-profit institutions, businesses, and individuals.

Appointed by FCC Chairman Pai to serve on the full BDAC.

Appointed by FCC Chairman to serve on a working group in support of the Commission's Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee (BDAC). This group is cataloging and examining observed and perceived barriers to broadband deployment from state and local governments, identifying patterns, and formulating recommendations for consideration by the full BDAC.

Directs and manages Cook County's efforts at securing and utilizing robust county-wide broadband infrastructure. Guides strategic planning efforts towards the mission of fully leveraging these investment in support of the economic and social well-being of the community.

Began in 2002 researching the existence of a resource for Minnesota county IT leaders to network, share best practices, and speak with a common voice when needed. We incorporated in 2004 and continue to grow in membership and services provided to support county IT shops.

Developed the first internal county Information Systems, GIS, and Radio Communications functions for the county. Currently provides direction, oversight, and management of all IT/MIS/GIS/Radio related functions and staff.

Directed Cook County's participation in ARRA-funded program led by the Blandin Foundation to stimulate broadband awareness, adoption, and application within 11 Minnesota communities.

Worked with 12 regional counties to build and maintain shared financial and land data systems.

Work collaboratively with representatives from around the state to help inform and guide the Blandin Foundation's investments in broadband capacity-building for rural Minnesota communities.

Minnesota State Government is the largest employer in the state of Minnesota, employing over 50,000 diverse and talented employees in more than 100 state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges, and universities. Our workplaces can be found across the state in 86 out of 87 Minnesota counties and a small share of employees work in out-of-state locations.When you bring your career to the State of Minnesota, the work you do affects the quality of life of millions of Minnesotans. From those who shape policy, to those who keep us safe, preserve our environment, or take care of our most vulnerable populations, we take our responsibilities to the public seriously.Join us as we continue to serve our great state and build a better Minnesota.To learn more about our career opportunities and comprehensive benefits, visit www.mn.gov/careers.To learn more about our state agencies, boards, commissions, colleges, and universities, visit http://mn.gov/portal/government/state/agencies-boards-commissions.