The challenge of expanding broadband access in rural Pennsylvania

• Asia Tabb
  BioRecent Stories

  

  Asia Tabb is the Host and Producer for WITF’s The Spark.
  
  She began her start in radio when she joined legendary radio/ host producer, Doc Christian. She worked closely with Doc for her role on “The Gospel Express, on WHOV 88.1 FM and was a host for “Unrestricted Praise” at Praise FM.
  
  Previously she was an anchor in Shreveport, Louisiana at KTAL/KMSS. Asia also worked as a Multi-Media Journalist at WHP-TV here in Harrisburg, PA.
  
  Asia got her break into news at KTVO in Ottumwa, Ia. While the 2020 caucuses were gearing up. Asia followed many candidates through their campaign trail from Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and 46th President of the United States Joe Biden.
  
  Asia was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a major in Communications.
  
  Asia is extremely friendly so don’t be afraid to say hi if you see her out and about.

aired; May 28, 2026

Listen to the podcast to hear the full conversation.

Reliable broadband access has become essential for work, education, healthcare, and everyday life, yet many rural communities across Pennsylvania continue to face challenges getting connected.

On The Spark, Zachary Adams of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, Penn State technology expert Jim Ladlee, and telecommunications professor Dr. Christopher Ali discuss the current state of broadband accessibility across the commonwealth. The conversation explores why internet access is increasingly viewed as a necessity rather than a luxury, the barriers that remain in rural areas, and how emerging technologies such as satellite internet and wireless home internet are changing the landscape.

The discussion also examines affordability, infrastructure investment, and policy questions surrounding broadband access, including whether high-speed internet should be treated as an essential utility in today’s connected world.