On December 17, 2025, the City of Pittsburgh officially recognized Dr. Justin W. Aglio, Ed.D., associate vice president for Penn State Outreach and executive director of the Readiness Institute at Penn State, with a formal City of Pittsburgh Proclamation celebrating his visionary leadership in education.
Issued by Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, the proclamation highlights Aglio’s more than two decades of impact in education, educational technology, and leadership and how this work continues to open doors for students across Pennsylvania and beyond.
“There are a lot of people who talk about doing things, but you’re different—you actually do what you say you’re going to do. You are definitely a community champion,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “Thank you for what you do for our community and the recognition you have given our region. It’s an honor for me to be able to make this day your day in our most livable city.”
Aglio is recognized in the proclamation as a nationally and internationally respected educator and innovator. Throughout his work, his focus on technology-enhanced teaching and learning have helped pave new pathways for student readiness in an evolving educational and workforce landscape.
Notably, Aglio has played a significant role in advancing artificial intelligence education, contributing to the launch of the nation’s first K–12 artificial intelligence program. More recently, he helped convene leaders from education, industry, government, and the nonprofit sector through The Global Impact Forum (TGIF) in Pittsburgh, an event designed to spark conversation, collaboration, and opportunity around emerging technologies, such as AI, and their implications for learners and communities.
As executive director of the Readiness Institute at Penn State, Aglio provides strategic leadership for initiatives that expand educational and workforce development opportunities for learners across the Commonwealth. Under his leadership, and in collaboration with a dedicated team and partners, the Readiness Institute has served thousands of students, creating access to college and career exploration through innovative programs and experiences.
“This honor belongs to our entire Penn State community and our partners, because real impact is never created alone,” said Aglio. “It happens when a dedicated team comes together to advance our modern land-grant mission and expand opportunity through education, innovation, and service.”
Aglio was joined by family, friends, and colleagues for the proclamation ceremony, a moment that celebrated not only his individual achievements but also the collective impact of the educators, partners, and communities who share in this work.
The full proclamation ceremony, including remarks from Mayor Ed Gainey and guests, is available to watch on Facebook.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Justin W. Aglio on this well-deserved honor.