BROADBAND

Area Director for Broadband

Catherine Krantz

Catherine Krantz started working at Communities Unlimited (CU) in November 2022. She is the Area Director for Broadband. Catherine manages the implementation of broadband strategy by developing and submitting grant proposals to ensure accessibility to infrastructure and funding for disadvantaged families in rural communities throughout CU’s footprint. Before coming to CU, Catherine worked as a Broadband Solutions Manager for Connected Nation. Catherine has a B.A. in Liberal Arts from the University of Texas at Austin and a M.P.A Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington.  

Broadband Interstate Coordinator

Mark Pearson

Mark Pearson, Broadband Coordinator, is based in Austin, Texas, and joined Communities Unlimited (CU) in 2004. Working across CU’s seven-state footprint, Mark helps expand broadband access in underserved communities.

Previously, he worked with local governments and utility boards to improve financial management, regulatory compliance, and public health. He also coordinated with state and federal agencies to address critical infrastructure needs. Mark holds a B.A. in University Scholar/Liberal Arts and an M.S. in Economics from Baylor University, with additional studies at the University of Texas at Austin in public financial management and water resources planning.

Broadband Technical Assistance Provider

Ali Milligan

Ali Milligan, Broadband Technical Assistance Provider, joined Communities Unlimited (CU) in September 2023. As a BTAP, Ali supports communities across CU’s seven-state footprint by assisting with broadband planning. She delivers education, addresses connectivity challenges, and fosters local partnerships to empower residents in advocating for improved internet access and adoption.

Ali began her journey at CU as a Digital Access Coordinator as part of the American Connection Corps/AmeriCorps program. Prior to joining CU, she worked with Mission Texarkana as a Feeding Center Lunch Monitor. Ali earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Southern Arkansas University and is currently pursuing her Master of Public Administration from the same institution. She lives in Texarkana, Arkansas.

Broadband Technical Assistance Provider

Jacqueline Carter Houston

Jacqueline Carter Houston joined Communities Unlimited (CU) in June 2024 as a Broadband Technical Assistance Provider (BTAP). She helps communities with broadband planning, education, and literacy across CU’s seven-state footprint. Jacqueline’s work includes identifying broadband needs, addressing challenges, and facilitating solutions to improve high-speed internet access, adoption, and use.

Before joining CU, Jacqueline was a Project Program Coordinator at the American Diabetes Association in Jackson, Mississippi. She also runs her own business, A Gift of Organizing, providing top-tier organizing and project management workshops. Jacqueline holds an MBA from Mississippi College and a Bachelor’s in Computer & Information Science from the University of Mississippi. She lives in Jackson, MS.

Broadband Technical Assistance Provider

Kaylan Harris

Kaylan Harris joined Communities Unlimited (CU) in July 2025 as a Broadband Technical Assistance Provider (BTAP). Kaylan supports communities across CU’s seven-state footprint by helping with broadband planning, education, and adoption. She works directly with local leaders and residents to address connectivity challenges and develop community-driven solutions. Kaylan also supervises digital skills initiatives and brings experience in public relations, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector collaboration.

Prior to CU, Kaylan served as a Digital Skills & Accessibility Analyst at Mississippi’s Office of Broadband Expansion & Accessibility (BEAM), where she managed all aspects of a $10.7 million federal grant focused on digital skills training. She coordinated statewide efforts with government, nonprofit, and private sector partners to improve internet affordability and access in rural communities. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration with a minor in Marketing from Mississippi State University.