Kevin Washo, Senior Vice Chancellor for External Relations at the University of Pittsburgh, has reflected on his 25-year connection to the institution in a letter featured in the Winter 2026 issue of Pitt Magazine. Washo described how an unexpected visit to Pittsburgh during a family trip became a turning point that led him to attend the university.
Growing up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Washo initially viewed Pittsburgh as distant. That changed when his uncle made an unscheduled stop at Pitt to visit family members studying there. “Before we head home, let’s drop in on your cousins,” his uncle said. “I think you’ll like Pitt and the city. It will remind you a little bit of home.” The drive included a detour through the Fort Pitt Tunnel, offering a first glimpse of the city’s skyline and the Cathedral of Learning.
Washo enrolled at Pitt less than two years later and credits his time as a student with shaping his future. After graduating in 2004, he lived and worked across Pennsylvania and other cities before returning to Pittsburgh in 2017 at the request of then-Chancellor Patrick Gallagher to serve as chief of staff.
He noted his ongoing commitment to giving back to Pitt, having previously served as a Board of Trustees member and now leading external relations efforts. Washo highlighted several university initiatives impacting communities throughout Pennsylvania, such as:
– The School of Dental Medicine’s work addressing dental health issues in rural areas.
– Efforts by Pitt-Bradford students to support small towns facing shortages of EMTs and paramedics.
– Support for York County libraries led by an engaged alumnus.
– Recruitment activities introducing prospective students from remote counties to Pitt.
Washo emphasized that Pitt remains closely linked with its alumni communities statewide and plays an important role in workforce development and economic stability for Pennsylvania.
He concluded by quoting Chancellor Joan Gabel: “Hail to Possible and Hail to Pitt!” He added his own words: “Hail to Pennsylvania!”
