It is with great pleasure and pride that we announce the exceptional recipients of the 2023 Readiness Institute Awards. These awards, established in 2021 to honor individuals who embody innovation, leadership, and community service, continue to recognize trailblazers who are shaping the future of education and community engagement in Pittsburgh and beyond.
The Stanley Thompson Future Ready Leader of the Year Award
Named in honor of Dr. Stan Thompson, former program director for education at the Heinz Endowments and a pioneer of the Readiness Institute, this award celebrates individuals who demonstrate a commitment to innovative thinking, learner-centered design, and leadership in the Pittsburgh education community. We are thrilled to congratulate Josiah Gilliam, executive director at PUMP, as the recipient of the 2023 Stanley Thompson Future Ready Leader of the Year Award.
Josiah truly embodies the essence of a future ready leader in Pittsburgh, showcasing his forward-thinking vision and commitment to innovative, inclusive strategies that propel the city forward. Every year, he graciously joins us at the Readiness Institute Summer Discovery program, inspiring students with his passion to cultivate a positive, inclusive environment in Pittsburgh for years to come.
Josiah joins the esteemed company of past winners, including Sam Moore (managing director at the Missouri Historical Society; previously executive director at the Moonshot Museum) and Mark Cuban (businessman, investor, and philanthropist).
The Tracey DeBlase Huston Community Leader of the Year Award
Named after Tracey Huston, a valued collaborator of the Readiness Institute, this award recognizes individuals who demonstrate a commitment to the Pittsburgh community through education, service, and leadership. We are delighted to announce Delvina Morrow, vice president of community affairs and DEI at Pittsburgh Penguins, as the recipient of the 2023 Tracey DeBlase Huston Community Leader of the Year Award.
Delvina stands as a beacon of community leadership, tirelessly advocating for the welfare and empowerment of marginalized voices in Pittsburgh. She spoke with learners from the Readiness Institute Summer Discovery program last year, and her passion for fostering unity and driving positive change shone through. It is clear that she is the driving force behind so much positive change in our city.
Delvina joins past recipients of this award, including Angela Mike (executive director of the Career and Technical Education division of the Pittsburgh Public School District) and Esther Wojcicki (journalist, educator, vice chair of Creative Commons advisory council).
Congratulations to Josiah Gilliam and Delvina Morrow for their well-deserved recognition as the recipients of the 2023 Readiness Institute Awards.