In Pittsburgh’s Stanton Heights neighborhood, The Neighborhood Academy (TNA) hosted its annual Night at the Museum event on February 10, turning its campus into a living museum for Black History Month. Eighty-two middle school students participated by portraying notable African Americans from the region, including several with ties to the University of Pittsburgh.
Students prepared displays that reflected their subjects’ achievements in fields such as law, engineering, journalism, athletics, education and the arts. Family members and community guests toured the corridors, interacting with students who took on the roles of figures they had researched.
Pittsburgh author Damon Young attended and met Sultan, a sixth-grader who portrayed him. Young has previously served as writer-in-residence at Pitt’s David C. Frederick Honors College.
Lisa Ross, TNA’s middle school social studies teacher and organizer of the event, said: “It is important for students to see the contributions that African Americans have made to the region. Our hope is that, while researching these exceptional figures, students will see that they, too, can make a positive impact in and around our city.”
Among those represented was Martha Conley (LAW ’71), recognized as the first Black woman to graduate from Pitt’s School of Law. Seventh-grader Zahara described Conley as “the image of a lawyer” and commented: “What she did was a big deal, being Black and female.” Zahara expressed her own ambition to become a professional basketball player.
Sixth-grader Taylor chose Gertrude Wade (EDUC ’44,’46G), who became Pittsburgh’s first female African American principal in 1962 at Vann Elementary School. Taylor said Wade inspired her not to be afraid: “If she can become a principal,” she said, “then I can become a veterinarian.”
Muhammad represented Damar Hamlin (A&S ’20), an NFL player who recently visited Pittsburgh and spoke with Muhammad about his journey from local athlete to professional football player. Muhammad shared Hamlin’s story with visitors and reflected on pursuing his own goals despite risks in sports.
Ross explained that students used traditional research methods instead of relying on social media. She said her aim was for them “to see and hear these people,” emphasizing their real-life presence.
The Neighborhood Academy was established in 2001 and serves more than 200 middle- and high-school students through an educational model focused on removing barriers. The school reports all graduates are accepted into college programs; 81% complete their degrees within five years.
Anthony Williams (EDUC ’20G), TNA head of school and one of those depicted during the event by students, stated: “The Neighborhood Academy’s programming is designed to cultivate creativity as well as leadership.” He added: “Our school’s vibrant lifestyle offers students meaningful opportunities and for tonight…they’re embodying the innovators and pioneers they had studied to help them grow academically, socially and personally. They’re literally the next generation, standing ready to carry those stories forward.”
Photography courtesy of The Neighborhood Academy
