Orange County Gathers with Technology and Social Media Workgroup
Orange County’s Technology and Social Media Workgroup recently met with Mayor Teresa Jacobs to share ideas on digital trends, best practices and community outreach plans for the 2018 State of the County Address.
“This workgroup allows us to foster better communication and engagement with our citizens and guests via social media and technology,” Mayor Jacobs said. “I am in awe of the growth of our Technology and Social Media Workgroup – from a small ambassador program in 2014 to an innovative think tank spanning multiple disciplines – the work that this group does to increase awareness about the County’s services, and expand our overall digital presence has helped us connect with the next generation of engaged citizens.”
Since being elected in November 2010, Mayor Jacobs has been a staunch advocate for citizen involvement and continues to champion broader technological advances through pioneering web, mobile applications and social media in Orange County. Mayor Jacobs was the first sitting mayor in Florida to feature a Social Media Ambassador program in her 2014 State of the County address.
Under Mayor Jacobs leadership, and inspired by the success of the Social Media Ambassador initiative, Orange County’s Technology and Social Media Workgroup was formed. The program brought together local, technology-savvy online influencers and now operates as a think-tank on emerging technologies, social media and mobile applications.
The group has expanded to represent a broad range of community partners, municipalities and stakeholders spanning the blogosphere, education, health, technology, hospitality, arts, culture and transportation sectors. The Workgroup consists of more than 30 members from the University of Central Florida, Rollins College, Valencia College, Heart of Florida United Way, City Year, Visit Orlando, Orlando Ballet, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Orange County Library System.
The Technology and Social Media Workgroup plays a key role in reaching online audiences during emergencies, severe weather situations and signature Orange County events including the annual State of the County, Economic Summit, Florida Simulation Summit, Oath of Office ceremony and the Holiday Heroes Toy Drive.
Photo Caption: Mayor Teresa Jacobs and the Orange County Technology and Social Media Workgroup gathered on April 25, 2018 in the Orange County Administration Building to discuss digital communications trends.
