Conferences offer a great opportunity for networking and professional growth. But the real adventure lies just outside the hotel lobby. This year, we’re meeting in Pittsburgh, and I encourage you to use this trip to explore the city’s unique cultures, vibrancy, and history. By experiencing the rich tapestry of the community hosting us, you will not only enrich your conference experience, but you will also deepen your appreciation for the diverse voices that shape our industry.
Pittsburgh is home to an incredible mix of people, food, and neighborhoods that make it one of my all-time favorite American cities. I’ve put together a short guide to help you find some hidden gems that will expose you to the true and inspiring culture of Pittsburgh.
August Wilson: The Writer’s Landscape, at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center – This immersive exhibition, dedicated to the life and works of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright August Wilson.
Chinatown Inn – This historical restaurant is the only significant remaining landmark of the former Chinatown. It is a cultural hub for the Chinese community and a destination for those seeking authentic Chinese cuisine.
The Clemente Museum – Honoring Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente of the Pittsburgh Pirates, and how he overcame racial and language barriers to become one of the greatest baseball players of all time.
Heinz History Center’s Detre Library & Archives – Western Pennsylvania is home to a significant amount of disability history, with a strong record of advocacy. Visitors can explore the library’s archives that have documented the history of Pittsburgh’s disabled community.
Historic Homewood Neighborhood Self-guided Artwalk – An arts & culture tour which boasts Black pride and excellence through murals, installations, and cultural landmarks.
Latin American Cultural Center (LACC) – A museum and center celebrating the arts, history, and cultures of Latin America, featuring beautiful and informative museum displays.
Murals of Maxo Vanka – Protesting against industrial capitalism, World War I, and the rise of Fascism, the radical murals of the Croatian expatriate artist are some of the most extraordinary and overlooked murals of the 1930s and ’40s.
The Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh – Explore a global university building with rooms designed to represent different cultures and nationalities found in Pittsburgh.
The Queer Witches – These two Millvale businesses are women and queer-owned; offering witchy things, gay things, and a They-bar. Both Maude’s and Harold’s are safe community spaces where all are welcome to gather and be their authentic selves.
Attending NCMPR D1 can be so much more than professional development. I invite you to join me in intentionally seeking out and appreciating what makes Pittsburgh so unique.
See you in The ‘Burgh!
Beth J. Noël
NCMPR Director-at-Large (DEI)
Director of Communications & Creative Services
Middlesex Community College