Dr. Tasha Alston has been named the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s inaugural chief diversity and inclusion officer.
“Dr. Alston is an advocate, scholar, practitioner and interdisciplinary thinker who will build on the critical diversity, equity and inclusion work that we have already begun as a campus community,” said Dr. Catherine Koverola, president.
Alston began her position last week and is a senior campus leader, serving on the President’s Cabinet. Additionally, she oversees the university’s Title IX office and will implement programs, partnerships and activities to advance equity and success for all members of the Pitt-Bradford community.
“Throughout her impressive career, Dr. Alston has been a thoughtful listener and has worked tirelessly to provide support and resources to help people, both in their personal and educational lives,” Koverola added.
Alston is a social worker and educational psychologist with more than 20 years’ experience. She specializes in research and community work that focuses on advancing equity and social justice for all, with a particular emphasis on children and families.
Alston completed her doctorate in educational psychology from the University of Georgia and earned her master’s degree in social work from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta. She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Siena College in Loudonville, N.Y.
She comes to Pitt-Bradford from Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., where she was an assistant professor in the department of social work. Prior to that, her positions included program coordinator for the Smart and Secure Children Parent Leadership Program at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta; a mental health specialist for the Metro Atlanta and Lamar County Carrera Pregnancy Prevention Program; and research and programming to support African American fathers and strengthening culturally diverse families and communities nationally.
“I am excited to join the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford,” Alston said, “and to be an active member of the surrounding Bradford community. I look forward to learning more about the people and the rich history of Pitt-Bradford as well as Bradford and the region.”
This new position is part of the University of Pittsburgh’s efforts to advance equity and access throughout the university.
Alston, who loves the intimacy of small towns, recently moved to Bradford. She is eager to explore nature in the region, including the local trails and the neighboring Allegany (N.Y.) State Park and Allegheny National Forest.
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