Pittsburgh Urban Heroes Award
Since 2010, the Center for Urban Biblical Ministry has been proud to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals in Western Pennsylvania through the Pittsburgh Urban Heroes Award. This honor is bestowed upon those who exemplify servant leadership and have made a significant impact in their communities, often without seeking or receiving widespread recognition.
Celebrating Community Servants
The Urban Heroes project was initiated with the support of a grant from the Multicultural Arts Initiative. It aims to shine a light on the extraordinary deeds of ordinary Pittsburgh residents who tirelessly work to enhance the lives of others in their neighborhoods. Their dedication and selfless acts are instrumental in the growth and enrichment of our schools, churches, and families.
Honoring the Heroes Among Us
Over the years, we have had the privilege of honoring a diverse group of individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to serving their communities. These heroes have been featured in our series of books titled “Urban Heroes: Stories of Ordinary Pittsburgh Residents Who Do Extraordinary Things.” These publications celebrate their stories and serve as an inspiration to us all.
Honorees
- 2010: Dr. Kenneth Barbour, Bruce Bickel, Carlotta Burgess, Joseph Burke, Karla Threadgill Byrd, Karen Farmer-White, Darryl Ford-Williams, Clifford Foster, Dr. William Glaze, Reverend Barbara Gunn, Paul Harper, Arnisha Keyes, Inez Miles, Dr. Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew, Greer Reed-Jones, Ellen Sandidge, Janet Scott-Mace, George Spencer, Aaron and Gloria Walton
- 2013: Nancy Bolden, Charles Chapman, Dr. Earlene Coleman, Etta Cox, Rockwell Dillaman, Valerie Dixon, Elaine Effort, Sylvia Fields, Ed Gainey, Vivian Hewitt, Diane Hobson, Lee Howard, Geraldine Jones, Shaunda Miles, Dr. Mitchel Nickols, Stuart P. Simpson, John H. White, Dr. Richard Wingfield
- 2015: Todd Allen, Oliver W. Byrd, Brenda Gregg, Rev. Andrew and Helen Jackson, Dr. Herbert V. R. P. Jones, Deloris Livsey, Sean and Loleda Moman, George and Sandra Russell, Joy Sato, Lola Thorpe, Lisa Thorpe-Vaughn, Melissa Wharton
- 2023: Rev. Patrice L. Fowler-Searcy
Purchase the Books
Celebrate the stories of these remarkable individuals by purchasing our Urban Heroes books, available online:
Nominate a Hero
Do you know someone who is making a significant difference in the Pittsburgh community? Nominate them for the next Pittsburgh Urban Heroes Award. Help us recognize and celebrate the heroes who are making our community a better place. Complete the form below to Nominate a Hero.