Penn Hills Innovation Institute Unveils 2025-2026 Fellowship Cohort and Ambassadors 

In an exciting step forward for the future of education in Penn Hills School District, the Penn Hills Innovation Institute proudly announces the launch of its 2025-2026 Fellowship Cohort and Ambassador program. This transformative initiative aims to elevate the learning experience for students, educators, and the greater Penn Hills community by empowering a cohort of visionary leaders to bring innovative ideas to life.  

“We believe that innovation is the key to unlocking the full potential of our students,” said Dr. John Mozzocio, Superintendent of Penn Hills School District. “This cohort represents dedicated individuals with fresh ideas committed to enhancing the educational experience for all. Their work will inspire a new era of creative thinking, collaboration, and student-centered learning in Penn Hills.” 

Meet the 2025-2026 Fellows: 

• Kristin Brown 

• Marlon Heywood 

• Eric Kulczyski 

• Kirsten Kriss 

• Nunurai Mavesere 

• Aesha Rice 

• Rick Staley 

• Christine Stupakis 

• N’Rae White 

Introducing the 2025-2026 Penn Hills Innovation Institute Ambassadors: 

• Kelise Boyd 

• Calix Clark 

• Chance Deluco 

• Ani'Yah Hickman 

• Kingsley Nwachukwu 

• Ashleigh Pickens 

• Kameron Turner 

A Competitive Selection Process 

The selection process for the 2025-2026 cohort was rigorous. Numerous compelling proposals were submitted from across the district, and the final selections were made after careful review by district leadership and the student ambassadors. Their collective insights helped ensure that the selected fellows are aligned with the district’s vision and are poised to create meaningful, sustainable change in the community. “The Innovation Institute brings together people in our district and community who want to create real change,” said Renel Williams, Assistant to the Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, & Assessment. “This cohort will provide the leadership and inspiration necessary for our students to thrive. As we support these projects, we know they will have a lasting, positive impact in our classrooms and the broader Penn Hills community.” 

Program Highlights: 

• Leadership & Mentorship: Fellows and Ambassadors will be paired with expert mentors, including district leaders, industry professionals, and community advocates, to guide them through the implementation of their projects. 

• Skill-Building Workshops: Participants will gain access to specialized training in innovation strategy, project development, and leadership tools that will prepare them to transform their ideas into impactful realities. 

• Impact Beyond the Classroom: The projects developed by this cohort have the potential to influence the district’s educational practices, offering real-world solutions that foster creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving among students and educators alike. 

A Vision for the Future 

As each Fellow’s initiative evolves, additional details will be shared, highlighting the projects being developed. The Penn Hills Innovation Institute is committed to showcasing the progress of these initiatives and ensuring that each project leads to lasting, positive change in the district’s educational landscape. 

“The Penn Hills Innovation Institute is about more than just fostering new ideas—it’s about creating a culture of collaboration, innovation, and empowerment that will shape the future of our district,” said Dr. Matt Dado, Director of Technology and Innovation. “These fellows and ambassadors are not only dreamers; they are doers. I am incredibly excited to see how their initiatives will elevate education for all our students, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow." 

Opportunities for Collaboration 

The Penn Hills Innovation Institute actively seeks partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and philanthropic entities to support these visionary projects. Together, we can foster a culture of innovation and empower students to lead the way into the future of education. 

Please visit i.phsd.org for more information about the Penn Hills Innovation Institute, to explore partnership opportunities, or to learn more about the Fellows and Ambassadors. 

Media Contact: 
Lydia Richardson 
Communications Specialist 
Email: lricha@phsd.org