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IBFS saw a problem that impacts numerous communities across the nation: the gap that is created due to lack of technological integration into diverse communities.
Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley, Alderwoman Rhonda Pindell Charles and Alderwoman Sheila Finlayson with Morgan State University and other community organizations announce the 2022 “Smart City Design Case” competition to challenge Morgan State students to solve real world problems through concepts of computing, engineering and business.
“Cities face a number of challenges and limited resources to solve those problems,” said Mayor Buckley. “Tapping young minds to help us to solve these challenges not only gives us access to unique solutions, but it also gives students an opportunity to practice real-world problem-solving skills.”
Mission
The competition is limited to undergraduate and graduate students of Morgan State University. Interested students will submit an essay and their resume. A total of 15 students will be invited to attend, three teams of five students each, a mix of graduate and undergraduate students on each team. Recruiting is currently underway. Starting in January, the City will give the students a problem (or problems) to solve. Students must incorporate technologies and business planning processes. In April, the students will present their solutions to be judged.
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Vision
Both the City of Annapolis, the students of Morgan State and the many community partners will benefit from this partnership. The students will gain invaluable experience and work together to solve real-world problems. The City will broaden its scope and find new solutions for how to address resident concerns. Community partners will bring economic incentives and forge mentoring partnerships. The Mayor, Alderwoman Pindell Charles and Alderwoman Finlayson will judge the team entries.
Pindell Charles and Finlayson are both graduates of Morgan State University
