The University of Pittsburgh’s 2025 Alumni Award winners are changing what’s possible here in Pittsburgh, around the globe and everywhere in between.
From literacy education, financial leadership and meaningful cultural change improving lives worldwide, to creating a culinary institution beloved by generations while also giving back to their community and showing their profound Pitt pride, these six leaders are making a difference through professional, philanthropic and volunteer accomplishments.
Honorees will be recognized during the Alumni Awards Celebration on Oct. 23 at 6:15 p.m. in the Connolly Ballroom in Alumni Hall as part of Homecoming.
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI FELLOWS
David C. Chavern (A&S ’83, Trustee)
David Chavern’s career in strategic and executive leadership with well-known organizations such as the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the News/Media Alliance has focused on improving the lives of Americans. As a member of the University's Board of Trustees, he chaired the Governance and Nominating Committee and recently spearheaded a successful effort to strengthen the Board’s governing documents, procedures and practices.
IVAN AND MARY NOVICK AWARD FOR YOUNG ALUMNI LEADERSHIP
In recognition of the accomplishments and leadership of a recent graduate of the University of Pittsburgh.
Luke William Neal (A&S ’13)
Luke Neal is a natural-born leader, and he has exhibited those qualities at every step of his burgeoning career. Since graduating in 2013, Neal has run on two parallel tracks—one in the military and one at the Federal Reserve. His leadership skills were recognized with the Federal Reserve’s Bill Taylor Award for Excellence in Supervision and in the U.S. Army Reserves, where he received the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award.
ROC SPIRIT AWARD
In recognition of outstanding enthusiasm, loyalty, pride, and Pitt spirit.
Barry Josowitz (A&S ’87, BUS ’88G)
As a volunteer, Barry Josowitz is or has been on the boards of the Business School Alumni Association and Pitt Alumni Association, as well as serving as a Pitt Day of Giving social ambassador. As a Panther fan, he sports his Pitt gear whenever possible—even as he travels the world, which has prompted numerous conversations in airports and poolside. He holds season tickets to multiple sports and encourages the next generation to attend Pitt, including his own three children.
You can read the full story on Pitt Alumni.