Bryan Byrd helps to run the Government Relations department at Shentel. In that role, he has helped to cultivate strong partnerships with local, state, and federal government representatives. These partnerships were key helping Shentel secure over $90M in grant funding to bring broadband to unserved homes, primarily in rural communities. In his role in pastoral ministry in his local church, however, he understands that broadband connections are most valuable when they facilitate real human connections as well. Bryan is excited for the opportunity to participate in the Virginia Broadband Telehealth Conference to help explore the ways that the Commonwealth can use growing broadband connectivity to build stronger and more resilient communities together.