In 1925, when Carter G. Woodson planned the first observance of Black history, then called “Negro History Week,” he would not have guessed that the celebration would expand to an entire month and still be strong 100 years later. The theme for Black History Month 2026 is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
Traditionally, units and departments across the University of Pittsburgh celebrate the contributions of Black and African-American Pittsburghers to the life of the region and the world. Our celebrations culminate with the K. Leroy Irvis Awards dinner, named in honor of our distinguished alumnus, a crusading attorney, civil-rights pioneer and the first Black speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026
Connolly Ballroom, Alumni Hall
Join the Office of Institutional Engagement and Wellbeing for the University's annual K. Leroy Irvis Celebration of Black History Month. This year, we will highlight and celebrate the accomplishments of seven individuals whose careers and characters exemplify K. Leroy Irvis’s legacy of leadership, public service, education, and cultural enrichment.
All are welcome! Registration required. Dinner provided.
Tickets are free, but an RSVP is requested.
Seven members of the Pitt and Pittsburgh communities — a few with familiar names, others not so well-known — will be recognized for their commitment to equality and justice during the University’s annual K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month celebration.
- Emerging Leader Award
Recognizes an individual who demonstrates growing leadership and engagement in advancing positive change within the University or local community.
- Civic Impact Award
Honors an individual whose actions have significantly improved their community or institution through public service, reform or advocacy.
- Student Leadership Award—Undergraduate
Celebrates an undergraduate student who exemplifies leadership through service, scholarship or community engagement.
- Student Leadership Award—Graduate/Professional
Recognizes a graduate or professional student who demonstrates exceptional leadership through mentorship, research or engagement initiatives.
- Innovation in Service Award
Celebrates a staff member who advances institutional excellence or community wellbeing through innovative programs, practices or partnerships.
- Excellence in Education Award
Recognizes a faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh who cultivates an inclusive, engaging and transformative learning environment through teaching, mentorship and service.
- Distinguished Alumnus Award
Honors a University of Pittsburgh alumnus who continues to embody the institution’s highest values in their professional or civic life.
Events that include art, music, dance and literature are being held across the Pittsburgh campus in celebration of Black History Month.
