From a forensic counselor, medical researcher and sustainability-minded chef to the co-founder of a music entertainment company, get ready to meet the Class of 2026.
“Challenges are inevitable; however, if you view setbacks as lessons instead of losses, that adversity will help shape you into the next leader that Pittsburgh needs.”
“I want to do meaningful work, lead well, be present for the people I love and have enough space to continue growing into the person I want to become.”
“I believe there isn't one day or one thing that can change anything overnight. I believe it’s the culmination of just constantly trying things and networking.”
“I hope my students learn to look beyond the algorithm itself and think about the entire process required to make AI genuinely useful and responsible in the real world.”
“I want to help build a Pittsburgh where inclusion is less about creating separate opportunities and more about finding ways for people of all abilities to participate, belong and pursue the goals that matter to them.”
“The physical part is important, but the life-skill training, discipline, honesty, self-esteem, belief, communication and respect is what shapes people’s lives.”
“I was a little embarrassed about my knitting obsession for a long time, and I wish I'd known that being loud about what you love works like a magnet.”
“Rely on your community, and if you don’t have one yet, build one. Then make room for others to join it. That applies whether you grew up in Pittsburgh or moved here, as I did.”
