As part of the ACRI team, I contributed to a comprehensive set of recommendations for positive change and sustainable development in Fayette County. In asset recategorization, my urban studies team engaged stakeholders to reclassify existing assets into distinct categories such as social, cultural economy, community service, mobility, and tourism. This strategic realignment aims to align…

In Connellsville, our Appalachian Community Research Initiative (ACRI) cohort presented our findings to local leaders from across Fayette County. Our community-engaged research delved into themes crucial for the region’s development, ranging from the impact of Fallingwater tourism to the preservation of historical assets. The culmination of our efforts resulted in a comprehensive overview that highlighted…

From Oct. 12-14, our ACRI group visited Fayette County as part of our commitment to community-engaged research. Some of the key community assets are the canteen, an antique shop on the GAP trail, the East End Community Center, Uniontown Lion’s Club, and some local pubs. We defined assets by how the interviewees spoke about the…

Hi! My name is Emilia Morris and I am a sophomore Urban Studies and prospective Social Work major. I am working toward a Certificate in Sustainability along with a Civic Learning Distinction. I am originally from a small suburb in New Jersey and have been slowly becoming accustomed to the “city life” of Pittsburgh. I…