Clifton Callaway came to Pittsburgh in 1993 to begin his medical residency and would go on to become a prominent researcher, physician, and leader in emergency care. However, before becoming a doctor, Callaway was a student majoring in psychology and working on an ambulance, an experience that led him to neuroscience and becoming an expert in brain injury.

Michael Madison is training lawyers to succeed in the 21st century as leaders and collaborators in the legal profession, in their communities, and in the innovation economy. He’s always been on the cutting edge, whether it be the internet in the 1990s or artificial intelligence of today. His upbringing in the Silicon Valley may have something to do with it. However, in the 1960s and 70s when people were jumping into advancing computer and tech industry, Madison decided on a different trajectory.

Rory Cooper and his team at the Human Engineering Research Laboratories have developed over 100 inventions related to wheelchairs, robotics, and wearable instruments designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities and military veterans. Cooper grew up being around mechanics and machines; however, before becoming an engineer and prolific innovator, Rory became an Eagle Scout and at age 17 decided to serve his country by joining the Army.

Moving around a bit in their early life has connected Lina Dostilio to the concept of space and place, particularly as it relates to community engagement and Dostilio’s work within that framework. A self-described hard worker, Dostilio thinks deeply about how to build relationships between and among folks in the community and those engaged in an academic university. A lover of “bizarre British television,” cooking, and her family, Lina balances long workdays with finding joy off the clock.

A lifelong love of books about science and history, coupled with a family of generations of strong black women, has led Erricka Hager to a space of community and health advocacy. Hager’s goal of representation in the field of science will not only blaze a trail for others, but could also land Hager in a dream spot of having a building dedicated in their name.

Being a doctor isn’t easy. Sure there are the long hours, but there can also be difficult situations as well as tough conversations with patients and their families. As a critical care medicine doctor, Cameron Dezfulian has had his fair share of challenges, but getting to help people every day? That’s why he does it.

Bill Strickland has spent over half a century teaching kids and training adults. It started on the North Side of Pittsburgh, the neighborhood where he grew up and would name the organization he built: Manchester. In 1968, Bill was a student at the University of Pittsburgh when he founded the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild as an arts program for inner city youth. A few years later, he was building a career training center that, along with the arts program, became a model embraced by cities all over the country. Today, he has the Key to the City – Pittsburgh’s highest civilian award – and travels the world building new partnerships and centers.

In 1992, Richard Garland graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, a year after being released from the Western Penitentiary. Since then, Garland has become a leader for Pittsburgh’s anti-violence initiative. He is leveraging his unique lived experience to find spaces of light in the lives of gang members and transferring skills gained on the streets to positive and safe alternatives in society.

As a young girl, Maliha Zahid knew what she wanted to do – become a doctor. Yet, after becoming a doctor Maliha decided she also wanted to become a scientist and began translating discoveries from the lab to the clinic. And between conducting research and practicing medicine, Maliha finds time for another talent… dancing.

From a research scientist to CFO, COO, and CEO, Phil Brooks has experience in all facets of business. Today, Phil uses his technical knowledge and range of experience to help faculty and students navigate the commercialization pathway of innovation.