DR. ESOHE OSAI, FAR LEFT, WITH GRADUATES FROM PITT’S JUSTICE SCHOLARS INSTITUTE, SEPT. 10, 2026. OSAI IS FOUNDER AND DIRECTOR OF JSI.
On Sept. 10, 2026, the University of Pittsburgh Justice Scholars Institute (JSI) hosted a celebration at the Dollar Bank Rooftop Lounge to commemorate its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of dedicated service to students and families throughout the Pittsburgh region. Reaching this milestone reflects not only the strength and sustainability of the organization, but also the critical need it continues to address. While many youth-serving programs faced significant challenges or closed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, JSI has remained steadfast in its mission, continuing to support students as they navigate barriers and challenges that disproportionately impact Black youth.
DR. ESOHE OSAI AND JAMES FOGARTY GIVING A PRESENTATION…
Housed within the University of Pittsburgh School of Education, JSI partners with the university’s College in High School program to provide students from Westinghouse High School, U-Prep/Milliones and Perry High School with free dual-enrollment coursework and comprehensive wraparound support services. In addition to academic opportunities, JSI offers college visits, workshops, leadership development experiences, enrichment programming, and networking opportunities that help students envision and achieve their future goals.
What sets JSI apart is its commitment to meeting students where they are. The organization identifies student needs and works tirelessly to address them, whether by connecting students to internship opportunities, collaborating with university departments, providing transportation assistance, attending college open houses alongside students, or helping ensure they have essential items as they transition into college residence halls. JSI’s approach is holistic, student-centered, and deeply rooted in advocacy, mentorship, and care.
CLARENCE JACKSON OF DOLLAR BANK, ERICA ROBERTS OF JSI, AND DERRICK WILSON OF THE WILSON GROUP.
Over the past 10 years, JSI has helped more than 539 students earn over 3,000 University of Pittsburgh college credits while still in high school. Most importantly, 61 percent of participating students have gone on to enroll in college, demonstrating the lasting impact of JSI’s support, leadership, and commitment to educational access.
Through its dedication, innovation, and focus on educational equity, the Justice Scholars Institute has transformed lives and expanded opportunities for hundreds of young people. The anniversary celebration brought together community members, educators, students, University of Pittsburgh faculty and staff, and community partners, including The Pittsburgh Promise, A+ Schools, and Youth Enrichment Services (YES). The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors Dollar Bank, Duolingo, and The Wilson Group, whose contributions helped celebrate a decade of impact and investment in Pittsburgh’s youth.
MYA ALFORD, D’AMA TAYLOR, SHAUNTEL SEGARS—ALL 2017 WESTINGHOUSE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES. (PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)
