How can we put racial justice and equity into practice? How can we elevate genius in ourselves and our communities? How can we foster joyful wellness? How do we center love and kindness in our communities?

Genius, Joy, and Love is an five-day intensive summer institute with pre- and follow-up sessions that will bring together Black youth (age 14-19) and adult educators to explore these questions. The program is led by Children's Museum of Pittsburgh in collaboration with a range of partners with expertise in racial justice, education, and the arts. It is an extension of a program that was previously led by the University of Pittsburgh, which focused on enhancing the diversity of the teacher pipeline by supporting Black youth who have an interest in pursuing a career in education as well as educators who work with Black youth.

This institute will take place from 9am-4pm on July 29-August 2 2024 at MuseumLab. An orientation meeting and follow-up activities will be scheduled based on participants' availability. Each day of the institute will involve a workshop with a leading social justice researcher and/or advocate; arts and making activities that explore the workshop's topic through poetry, art, or song; healing and wellness activities; and guided action planning sessions that support Fellows to put their learning into practice and make lasting change in their communities. Fellows will also engage in evaluation activities such as completing surveys and participating in interviews and focus groups.


Youth eligibility:

  • Applicants should identify as Black.
  • Applicants should be age 14-19.
  • Each applicant should have a broad interest in learning more about careers in education and considering how education can embody racial justice. We understand that youth are still developing their career interests, and we intend to support that development by exposing them to the importance of educational practices that are used to disrupt the status quo.

Adult eligibility:
  • Education contexts: We welcome applicants in PK-12 schools, out-of-school learning, higher education, or other educational contexts.
  • Many roles: Teachers, administrators, curriculum designers, teaching artists, and other people connected to the education system are all invited to apply.
  • Multidisciplinary: The institute will take a multidisciplinary approach and welcomes applicants working within a variety of areas, including arts, literacy and English language arts, STEAM education, and more.

Each selected Fellow who completes the program will receive a $500 stipend.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, with priority given to applications received by May 1, 2024. Please fill out the form on the next page to apply.

Please direct any questions about this initiative to Rachel Madden at rmadden@pittsburghkids.org.

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