ABSTRACT
The Internet, and Internet-dependent technologies, have become an important aspect of contemporary life in the United States. As a result, high-speed Internet, or broadband, has become crucial for engaging in educational, professional, and political activities. Access to broadband in rural communities can be limited by demographic and geographic factors. This chapter explores the relevance of John Rohr’s concept of regime values as it relates to administrative efforts to expand residential broadband access across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Broadband access is relevant to questions of equality and equity in that high-speed Internet connections may be used to improve social and economic opportunities for all citizens. The chapter highlights the work of Commonwealth Chief Broadband Advisor (CBA) Evan Feinman as an illustration of how commitment to the value of equity can and does impact administrative action. By revisiting John Rohr’s concept of regime values, this chapter shows how the idea applies today, while also advancing the professional education of bureaucrats through contemporary lessons learned.
