Our digitalLIFT board members bring not only deep expertise, but also personal stories, experiences, and priorities that ground our work in meaningful purpose. This month, we are excited to spotlight Mark Gale, a member of our Audit and Finance Committees, whose professional background and lived experience shape his commitment to digital inclusion.
Finding His “Why”
Every journey with digitalLIFT starts somewhere unique, and for Mark, it began at a meaningful turning point in his career’s trajectory. Mark was introduced to digitalLIFT by Keri Vogtmann (an amazing board member, too!) at a moment of transition in his own life. After making a career change, time opened up in his schedule that allowed him to extend his efforts in a way that closely aligned with his skills and values. He became eager to find the right volunteer opportunity. What started as a search for the right place to serve quickly became something deeply personal. Despite having access to technology, Mark’s mother was never tech savvy, and he saw firsthand how much easier her life could have been with greater digital confidence and understanding. That experience sparked his desire to support digital literacy efforts and ultimately led him to join the digitalLIFT board.
Professional Expertise Meets Purpose
That personal motivation is reinforced by a professional background uniquely suited to our mission. Mark brings a strong financial and governance background to digitalLIFT. He has served as a Corporate Controller and Internal Audit Manager, and he is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). He currently serves as an Accounting Instructor at Cosumnes River College, where he supports the next generation of professionals by sharing practical financial and accounting knowledge.
This blend of purpose and precision strengthens our organization from the inside out. As a member of the Audit and Finance Committees, Mark helps ensure that digitalLIFT remains financially sound and well positioned to grow its impact.
Why Digital Inclusion Matters to Mark
With both professional insight and personal experience, Mark sees digital inclusion as essential and foundational.
“The world we live in requires the use of technology and internet access to cover basic needs and to function financially,” he says.
From managing finances to accessing essential services, technology plays a role in nearly every aspect of modern life. Without digital skills and access, individuals and families are at risk of being left behind.
Advocacy: A Community That Cares
Ultimately, for Mark, advocacy is about people and the relationships that move change forward. Mark believes advocacy starts with awareness. Recognizing the challenges faced by marginalized communities and actively supporting equity focused initiatives and services are key ways individuals can help close the digital divide.
When asked if there is anything else he would like others to know, Mark points to the people.
“I love the association with people who genuinely care about others,” he says.
That spirit of care and shared commitment is at the heart of digitalLIFT, and we are grateful to have Mark’s leadership, perspective, and generosity as part of our community.
Life Beyond the Boardroom
Outside of his professional and board responsibilities, Mark enjoys spending time in nature. Camping, hiking, and fishing are some of his favorite ways to recharge. He also loves to travel, with Norway and Alaska standing out as his favorite destinations.
Mark’s curiosity, professionalism, and love of learning make him a truly well-rounded leader, someone who brings both rigor and heart to our work. We are thankful to have him helping lead digitalLIFT as we continue building a more equitable and connected future together!
Comments are closed.