“There is magic here when this remarkable mix of student and faculty talent leads to collaborative efforts to explore profound questions and address some of society’s most difficult challenges. That is when the University is at its best,” said Chancellor Patrick Gallagher, to those in attendance at the University’s 43rd annual Honors Convocation.

The event took place on Friday, Feb. 22, at the Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland. Nearly 3,700 undergraduate and graduate students and more than 475 faculty members were recognized for their achievements during the 2018-19 academic year.

Ann E. Cudd, senior vice chancellor and provost, opened the ceremony with a quote from African-American author and Pitt alumna Bebe Moore Campbell, who observed, “You live your life between your ears.”

“Thought drives creativity, innovation and excellence,” said Cudd. “Since 1787, our commitment to having an impact through the work of our faculty, students and alums has been unwavering. The results can be seen in almost every aspect of human welfare, as well as in the economic and intellectual vitality of local and global communities.”

Among the many faculty and student achievements celebrated at the event were:

• Thirteen Pitt faculty members announced as recipients of Chancellor Patrick Gallagher’s Distinguished Public Service, Research and Teaching Awards
• Six faculty members honored for expanding cultural awareness and consciously creating welcoming, inclusive learning environments and named 2018 Provost’s Diversity in the Curriculum Awards recipients
• Madeline Guido named 2019 Omicron Delta Kappa Senior of the Year, which honors an outstanding student leader, emphasizing the development of the whole person as a member of the University community and as a future contributor to a better society
• Kaylene Stocking honored as the 2019 Emma Locke Award recipient for her high scholarship, character and devotion to Pitt’s ideals

Arthur S. Levine, senior vice chancellor for the health sciences and John and Gertrude Petersen Dean of the School of Medicine, presented the ceremony’s keynote and encouraged attendees to “Use your voices to share expertise and perspective.” In January, Levine announced his intention to transition to a role leading a new laboratory in the University’s Brain Institute, where he will pursue Alzheimer’s disease research. 

“We need to tell our stories because the world needs academia. With that honor comes the responsibility to make the world a better place,” he said.

View a gallery of photos from the event and reception on Pitt's Facebook page.