LAMAR D. BLACKWELL
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Pittsburgh Public Schools Superintendent Wayne N. Walters appointed Lamar D. Blackwell as the new Chief of Staff, effective May 23, 2024. The Board approved Blackwell’s appointment at its May 22 legislative session. As Chief of Staff, Blackwell will work closely with Dr. Walters, overseeing all areas of the District’s general administration.” I am excited to welcome Lamar Blackwell as the new Chief of Staff. He brings a wealth of experience, energy, innovative ideas, and leadership skills that will be invaluable in our pursuit of excellence in education,” said Dr. Walters. “This appointment marks a significant step towards enhancing our district’s operations and strategic initiatives, ensuring we continue to provide the best possible educational opportunities and experiences for our students.”
A proud Pittsburgh Perry High School graduate, Blackwell expressed his enthusiasm about returning to the Pittsburgh Public Schools during this exciting period of transformation.
“As an Executive Leader who faced unparalleled adversity growing up, I understand the challenges that our students face on their road to success. Continued Blackwell, “When God called me to return to the district that helped shape me, I answered the call.”
Before his appointment as Chief of Staff, Blackwell served as the Founding Executive Director of BUILD.org, where he successfully launched the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, region of the K-12 entrepreneurship education nonprofit. Under his leadership, the program established new strategic partnerships with 25 public and charter schools and collaborated with over 100 educators and 35 school leaders, leading to improved student engagement and standardized test scores.
From 2020 to 2022, Blackwell served as the Pittsburgh Program Director & CEO of the Center for Employment Opportunities, where he created strategic direction for re-entrants. Before then, he served as the Chief of Staff and Director of Programs for the NEED Organization, where he worked alongside the CEO, ensuring minority students had equitable access to college education.
Blackwell’s educational background is a testament to his commitment to learning and his preparation for leadership roles. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Secondary Education from Morehouse College. He also attended the 9th ranked dual-degree J.D. and M.P.A. Program in the Country, Georgia State University.