Students

Spirit of Pitt

The Pitt Alumni Association (PAA) presents two upper-class undergraduate students and one graduate student with Spirit of Pitt awards during Homecoming Week, recognizing a commitment to academic excellence, community service and the PAA’s values. 

The students with the most votes from their peers will each receive a Spirit of Pitt award and $2,000 in student resource funds. 

Spirit of Pitt Contact
Olivia Ernstoff
Associate Director of Young Alumni and Student Programs

Meet the Candidates

Status: Junior
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

Hello Panthers! My name is Arushi and I'm studying public health and bioethics as part of Pitt's Class of 2027. I have built a strong sense of community through leadership, research, advocacy, and service throughout my time at Pitt so far. I love mentoring prospective students, collaborating with peers to address public health challenges, and working to make our Pitt community even stronger and healthier. To embody the Spirit of Pitt means to uplift my peers and use my passions to leave an impact on our campus and our community. I am grateful to be part of a campus that inspires students to lead, serve, and support each other every day.

Favorite Pitt Tradition

My favorite Pitt tradition is “Sweet Caroline.” As someone who grew up in rural Georgia, North Dakota and Kentucky, being surrounded by our diverse Pitt community is very meaningful to me. When we chant "Let's go Pitt!," I feel the pride that embodies the Spirit of Pitt.

Status: Junior
Graduation Year: 2028

About Me

My name is Bryan Calderon and I am a junior majoring in Psychology and Education. As a first-generation college student, my experience at Pitt has shaped my passion for leadership, mentorship and community. I am an ideal candidate for Spirit of Pitt because I am committed to uplifting others and creating a strong sense of belonging on campus. As a Provost Academy Leader, I support first-year students in their transition to college, helping them feel seen, supported and connected. My involvement in Alpha Kappa Psi as recruitment chair and the Latinx Student Association reflects my dedication to building community and representing diverse student voices. I take pride in embodying school spirit through my actions, leadership, and the positive impact I strive to leave on others at Pitt.

Favorite Pitt Tradition

My favorite Pitt tradition is rubbing the Panther's nose for good luck. I always go before an exam or when I'm having a rough week. It's perfectly placed right in front of the Cathedral of Learning, and I often find myself taking pictures of the panther statue with the Cathedral in the background. It's a small tradition that always brings me comfort and reminds me of Pitt pride!

Status: Senior
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

Hello! My name is Abby Diamond and I am a senior at Pitt. Three years ago, I made a decision that changed my life by attending this university. I've been incredibly fortunate to be involved in all facets of the Pitt experience. As a Pathfinder, I persuade prospective students to come to my favorite place in the world. As a member of the Pitt Marching Band, I promulgate school spirit during sporting events and University traditions through music. Finally, as a Blue and Gold Society Ambassador, I help alumni keep in touch with the school that they call home. I love this school from the bottom of my heart, and everyone here makes me feel welcomed, appreciated and part of the community. I strive every day to make my fellow students feel the same. Thank you and Hail to Pitt!

Favorite Pitt Tradition

My favorite Pitt tradition is the Pitt Band running out of the tunnels on game day. The Pitt Band ignited my love for Pitt years ago, and every time I get the honor to commence game days this way, it reminds me of the joy that Pitt brings me.

Status: Junior
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

Hi! My name is Oyin Ganiyu, and I am a junior studying natural sciences with certificates in global health and conceptual foundations of medicine. At Pitt, I strive to embody the spirit of this university through service, leadership and curiosity. I conduct cancer research at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and volunteer with immigrant and elderly communities through public health initiatives focused on improving health care access. I am also a part of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. I have also contributed to cultural programming on campus as a creative intern for the Wazobia Fashion Show, helping celebrate African culture and build community at Pitt. I believe the strength of Pitt's spirit lies in the countless opportunities for students to explore diverse interests while using those passions to strengthen our community. In the short time I have been at Pitt, I have worked to embody that spirit through my research, service and cultural engagement while contributing to the campus and city that have already profoundly shaped my growth.

Favorite Pitt Tradition

One of my favorite Pitt traditions is when the volleyball team dances with the marching band after matches. It's such a joyful moment that brings athletes, musicians and fans together. I feel like it's a moment that captures the true Spirit of Pitt, celebrating one another and building a strong sense of community and pride.

Status: Junior
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

Hi! My name is Natalie Kim and I'm a member of the Class of 2028. I came to Pitt from California, not knowing what to expect, and quickly found a community that made this campus feel like home. From classmates and mentors to student organizations that welcomed me wholeheartedly, Pitt has given me opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. Whether teaching in chemistry labs, serving in student government or leading yoga classes, I've been constantly supported by people who believe in lifting each other up. That generosity and sense of belonging define the Spirit of Pitt to me. I'm running for Spirit of Pitt to celebrate the community that welcomed me, challenged me and helped me find a home far from home. I want to help ensure every student feels that same pride and connection. Hail to Pitt!

Favorite Pitt Tradition

My favorite Pitt tradition is Victory Lights. My friends joke that the Cathedral of Learning is our North Star if lost, and after a Panther win, the glowing lights make that even truer. Whether spotting them from my Oakland balcony or out celebrating with friends, they always bring us home together.

Status: Junior
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

Hi! My name is Resa Lascek, and I'm in the Class of 2027. I'm honored to be considered for the Spirit of Pitt award because Pitt has given me the greatest friends and memories of my life. I think the Spirit of Pitt itself is the love for what this place has given us, which brings us together as students. As a Pittsburgh native, I grew up hoping that someday I would get to be a part of that legacy. Campus involvement is of course important to spark that spirit, but I think what's more important is taking those things you love doing and working to make people feel interconnected. In each of my clubs and activities on campus I do my best to find points of connection between people and create an environment where, despite our differences, we are united through one thing: the Spirit of Pitt.

Favorite Pitt Tradition

Growing up in a Pitt football family, “Sweet Caroline” was probably the first song I ever learned. I didn't understand football at age 5, but I did understand when those first notes of Neil Diamond started to play in the stadium. That was my tradition.

Status: Graduate Student
Graduation Year: 2027

About Me

My name is Leia Millan, and I am a Doctor of Pharmacy candidate at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Class of 2027. I came to Pitt in 2021 as a first-generation student during the COVID-19 pandemic, unsure of where I belonged. Through Pitt Dance Marathon and involvement across campus, I found a community rooted in service, resilience and Pitt pride. That foundation shaped my commitment to stay engaged beyond my undergraduate years, serving in leadership roles within pharmacy organizations and representing the School of Pharmacy as an RxAmbassador. Whether fundraising for the Children's Hospital, mentoring prospective students or strengthening professional communities, I strive to give back to the university that invested in me. Spirit of Pitt represents students who uplift others and strengthen our traditions. I am proud to continue that legacy and to serve as a graduate student dedicated to excellence, community and Panther pride.

Favorite Pitt Tradition

My favorite Pitt tradition is Lantern Night. As a first-year student in 2021, we gathered on the lawn of the Cathedral of Learning, adapting the ceremony to keep our community safe. Watching the "Light of Learning" passed forward during such an uncertain time reminded me that Pitt's spirit endures, even in change.

Application Requirements

  1. Fill out the Spirit of Pitt application
  2. Minimum GPA of 2.5
  3. Full-time student during spring and fall 2026
  4. Fulfilled five hours of community service during the 2025-26 academic year
  5. Current junior, senior or graduate student
  6. Be in good standing with Student Conduct, fill out the Student Conduct form and include the following information:
    • What program: Spirit of Pitt
    • Who is your supervisor? Olivia Ernstoff
    • What is their email? ofl4@pitt.edu

Important Dates

  • September 7, 9 a.m.: Campaigning Begins
  • September 15-18: Paint the Town
  • September 21: Homecoming Kick Off
  • September 21, noon: Voting Starts
  • September 22, noon: Voting Ends
  • September 26: Homecoming Game Half Time Announcement

Application Process and Guidelines

Candidates for the Spirit of Pitt award will go through the following selection process:

  • Application & Eligibility Review: Students submit an application, which is reviewed by PAA staff. Eligibility is confirmed by the Registrar and Student Conduct offices to ensure all minimum requirements are met.
  • Essay Evaluation: Eligible applications are evaluated by a committee, with essays reviewed and ranked to determine semifinalists.
  • Interview Round: The top 18 candidates (12 undergraduate and six graduate students) are invited to interview with a panel of university partners. From these interviews, six undergraduate and two graduate students will be selected for the Homecoming Court.
  • Campaigning & Voting: Court members participate in a campus-wide campaign and voting period during the fall semester.
  • Winners Announced: Spirit of Pitt recipients are revealed at the Homecoming football game.

All applicants must adhere to the following policies and procedures. Students who violate any of these policies will be disqualified, and the appropriate departments will be notified to determine disciplinary actions.

  • Spirit of Pitt Homecoming Rules & Guidelines
  • University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy Statement
  • Branding guidelines established by the University
  • Policies and procedures listed by the Office of Policy Development and Management

The Pitt Alumni Association partners with the Office of Financial Aid to award resource funds to Spirit of Pitt recipients, with eligibility verified during the application process. If a student is ineligible to receive the funds, PAA staff will notify them and the student must designate a SORC-recognized student organization to receive the award. Funds may be used for:

  • Alumni engagement events
  • School spirit initiatives
  • Annual traditions
  • Professional development
  • Necessary organizational supplies

In the event of a tie during essay reviews or interviews, selected students may be asked to participate in an additional evaluation round to determine final rankings.

How to Vote

Voting takes place through Experience Pitt! Instructions on how to vote will be available closer to Homecoming.

Past Spirit of Pitt Winners
Sophia Chebli, Johanna Bezjak, Tümay Onat
2025

Sophia Chebli, Johanna Bezjak, Tümay Onat

Ellie Coffield, Yaa Kornne, Dana Julian
2024

Ellie Coffield, Yaa Kornne, Dana Julian

Courtney Sheridan & Gabby Lombardi
2023

Courtney Sheridan & Gabby Lombardi

Bea Amsalu & George Baraka
2022

Bea Amsalu & George Baraka

Dejovia Davis and Ian Montelius
2021

Dejovia Davis and Ian Montelius

Alexis Zito and Jonathan Perlman
2020

Alexis Zito and Jonathan Perlman

Sophia Chebli, Johanna Bezjak, Tümay Onat
2025

Sophia Chebli, Johanna Bezjak, Tümay Onat

Ellie Coffield, Yaa Kornne, Dana Julian
2024

Ellie Coffield, Yaa Kornne, Dana Julian

Courtney Sheridan & Gabby Lombardi
2023

Courtney Sheridan & Gabby Lombardi

Bea Amsalu & George Baraka
2022

Bea Amsalu & George Baraka

 

Cathedral in Photos

 

This year marks 100 years since construction began on the Cathedral. You won’t want to miss the celebration on September 27!