Council Members

With over 15 years of experience developing programs that benefit the community, Adeshewa Metzger, the Bookkeeper at Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy specializes in non-profit strategic planning and accounting. She is a graduate of the other CMU, Central Michigan University, with a degree in Business Management and has minors in both Art and General Science. Adeshewa Metzger is married, has two young girls, and enjoys reading and gardening.

Adeshewa’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “Intentional community outreach by business with DEI impacts in recruiting,  programming and stakeholder planning.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Adeshewa stated, “My daughter’s and I recently built a robot crab.”

Allison’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “I envision a city where the arts are accessible to anyone who is interested.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Allison stated, “I much prefer cookie dough and cake batter to the actual cooked desserts!”

Allison has an MBA and BM, Music Performance from Duquesne University.

Amy’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “to help bring more diverse and talented individuals to the area.”

She is an MBA graduate and plays the banjo!

Benjy is proud to have moved back, to say Pittsburgh can feel like a home, and to see how far this town has come.

Benjy’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives create welcoming spaces that incentivize talented young professionals to move to Pittsburgh and stay. As the workforce improves, the city improves, and that in turn attracts better and better talent. This ripple effect with small beginnings pays off in big ways. DEI isn’t just a buzzword – it’s as integral to community revitalization as a thriving business district, or a road without a pothole.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Benjy stated, “I probably live in the one log cabin that happens to be closest to downtown.”

Benjy has a BA from the University of Pittsburgh and an MFA from California College of the Arts.

Chris’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “I’d like to see full representation and opportunity for everyone to create a truly diverse and vibrant Pittsburgh community.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Chris stated, “I coach the Pittsburgh Steelwheelers Wheelchair Basketball team.”

Chris has a B.A. in TV/Video Production from Robert Morris University.

Daniel grew up in Bradenton, Florida and recently moved to Pittsburgh.

“Since being in Pittsburgh, I have

been struck by the ways in which this city is a microcosm of much of the United States. While I am with patients, I see and hear stories of how the lived experience in Pittsburgh

differs for many depending on numerous factors. While there are seemingly endless opportunities in this city and so much potential for growth, there remain significant barriers

to harnessing this energy to benefit everyone in an

equitable way. I look forward to serving on the Next Generation Council to help define and work through these complex issues so that Pittsburgh can be regarded as a premier location for all, locals and newcomers alike.”

Daniel’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “Fostering a more collaborative, connected, and interdisciplinary environment grounded in healing and liberation.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Daniel stated, “I am an avid cook and baker, and also enjoy making ice cream when I have free time.”

Daniel received his undergraduate degree at Saint Leo University, and attended medical school at the University of Miami.

Darrell is a Pittsburgh Native currently working at Carnegie Mellon University as a Human Resource Specialist, where he ​specializes in Data Analytics. Prior to his current role, Darrell worked at General Nutrition Inc. ​as a Benefits Administrator where he assisted employees and vendors with all benefit inquiries such as benefit enrollments and leave of absence requests.

Outside of his career at Carnegie Mellon University, Darrell is pursuing a master’s degree in Public Management from Carnegie Mellon University. Upon the completion of his master’s degree, Darrell hopes to help develop minority businesses within the Pittsburgh Region by planning new market entry strategies and business frameworks.

With this being Darrell’s second year on Vibrant Pittsburgh’s Next Generation Council, he looks to make a significant impact on retaining minority talent within the region as the council’s newly elected Co-chair.

Darrell’s motto is “All challenges can be conquered with resilience.”

“In the wise words of Quincy Jones, ‘I don’t have problems. I have puzzles.’ The key to achieving success is finding the right fit for the pieces.” – Darrell Baltimore

Itha is the Senior Civic Innovation Specialist at the City of Pittsburgh, Department of Innovation and Performance, where she ​leads the City’s Civic Tech efforts through external partnerships and is the program manager of PGHLab, the City’s urban incubator for startups. Prior to her current role, Itha served ​as a Policy Analyst for Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto, Office of Equity, focusing on special programs and initiatives that impacted vulnerable communities: digital equity and inclusion, food insecurity, land recycling, and Asian American affairs.

She is also the chef and sole owner of The Hungry Cao, offering Chinese cooking classes and private events that since 2017 has had the dual mission of ​elevating the standing of ethnic Chinese cuisine in Pittsburgh and fundraising for an intersectional social justice cause.

Itha believes in civic engagement through diverse representation and currently serves as the Impact Officer for the World Economic Forum’s Pittsburgh Global Shapers community, is a Commissioner on Governor Wolf’s Commission for Women, and serves on the Boards of: Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, Civically, Vibrant Pittsburgh, the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh, and the Pittsburgh Urban Magnate (PUMP). She is also a proud high school mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program.

Maple’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “Pittsburgh has so much incredible culture, but it can be hard to find your place in the community. I hope to see individuals from all backgrounds flourish and find connections across groups, as we can do much more together than we can separately.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Allison stated, “I used to perform in a musical theatre troupe in college, and still love to connect with others through the performing arts!”

Allison has a B.A. in Economics from Cornell University.

Micah’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “America reflects so many different kinds of beautiful people. I’d like to see the vastness of this diversity reflected in Pittsburgh across all industries and institutions. My efforts in helping undergraduates get engaged on campus and in the community will hopefully cultivate a sense of belonging and a desire to stay and work in Pittsburgh.”
When asked to share a fun fact, Micah stated, “I’ve traveled to seven different countries.”

Micah has a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Nicollete’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “to continuously educate folks on our unconscious biases and the importance of being aware of these. My vision is for the community of Pittsburgh to keep embracing all racial, ethnic, and generational diversity and be known as a safe place for all backgrounds of life.”

Nicollete has a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology at Kent State University with a minor in Human Resource Management, and also a boating license!

Sam grew up in the Boston area and only first visited Pittsburgh once they had committed to attend Pitt. Sam has lived here ever since and loves the city!

Sam’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is to make every resident feel they can excel, every student feel they can grow, every visitor feel they want to stay, and everyone to feel they belong. By continuing to create and promote opportunities for people of diverse backgrounds our city can continue to grow and our neighborhoods that we have so much pride in will flourish more than ever!

When asked to share a fun fact, Sam stated, “I love soccer and have been coaching at a high school in the region for the past 7 years.”

Sam has a B.S. Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh – Katz Graduate School of Business.

Samson Horne serves as the Associate Manager of Digital Media at Duquesne Light Company, where he helps shape the organization’s external communication strategy by having discussions with and creating engaging content for customers on social media, and providing informative messaging in email newsletters and on the company website. He also writes press releases and generates stories for the company’s news archives. Prior to his current role, Samson was a newspaper reporter and night producer for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review where he worked as a general assignment reporter covering Pittsburgh and its eastern suburbs.

A proud brother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Samson serves as a communications liaison for the Pittsburgh graduate (Iota Phi) chapter of the historically-Black international organization. In that role, he is responsible for public affairs for the chapter including writing press releases, sponsorship requests and coordinating media interviews with chapter officers. Samson believes in empowering Black communities through civic engagement and is enthusiastic about the work that Iota Phi has done throughout Pittsburgh neighborhoods, from feeding those in need during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to hosting a virtual “Omega Carter G. Woodson Academy” focused on Black History, Art and STEAM curriculum for school-aged children on the weekends.

Samson is a greater-Atlanta area native who graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, where he played football and studied communications with a focus on children’s media. He decided to make the Steel City his permanent home after receiving his master’s degree in Journalism from Point Park University. He is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and Pittsburgh Black Media Federation.

He lives in Dormont with his girlfriend, Tyra, who is an attorney, and their children Kairos and Yara.

Shelby’s vision for DEI in the Pittsburgh region is “Incorporating DEI across industries is essential for Pittsburgh to continue positive growth and increase wellbeing for all folks in our region. I get excited thinking about this enormous opportunity – especially when engaging with so many of our region’s employers in my work who are already dedicated to implementing DEI strategies. It is of utmost importance that our thriving tech community take advantage of the chance to incorporate DEI in order to enhance innovations that help all of society.”

When asked to share a fun fact, Shleby stated, “I am passionate about sustainability and in my spare time work as an entrepreneur focused on the circular economy.”

Allison has a BA in Sociology from Pennsylvania State University.

Andrea Vasquez is a Pittsburgh-born native who is excited to witness and partake in the astounding changes in this revitalized city. She is a 2002 graduate from Plum Senior High School, and went on to further her education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She graduated in 2006 with a Bachelors of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Minors in Business Administration and Journalism. She was a Board of Governor’s full Scholarship Recipient, which was awarded based on academic performance and a minority background. She is a fourth-generation Mexican and Polish mix. She is currently a resident in the city of Pittsburgh.

She obtained an eight-year career in the fashion industry with such corporations as H&M, Macys and JCPennys. Her most recent position was Merchandise Execution Manager, in which she oversaw storewide operations. After this endeavor she began a career in financing. During her first three years in this industry she was the Branch Manager for the mutual and historic Dollar Bank. Over the last three years she has worked as a Group Banking Officer, and oversees business development in the regions covering twenty branches.

Andrea currently serves as a leader for the Next Generation Council through Vibrant Pittsburgh, and is focusing her efforts on collaborating organizations dedicated to retaining diverse talent in the city. She is a Board Member and Membership Chair for the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (PMAHCC.org). She is active in many chambers throughout the city, such as the North Chamber, Airport Chamber, Southpointe Chamber, and attends events on behalf of the bank to increase overall business development in various regions. She is also a member with the Pittsburgh Human Resource Association. Over the last year she was elected to serve on the Equal Opportunity Review Committee of behalf of the Mayors office. This committee reviews city bids which are presented in order to ensure compliance with Minority, Women and Disabled businesses throughout Pittsburgh. She a member of the Next Generation Council for Vibrant Pittsburgh, which is committed to retaining and attracting diverse talent in Pittsburgh. Andrea also serves on an advisory Board for Powerlink, which helps small businesses develop and implement strong business plans to increase revenue and implement strategy change.

Ashli White works at BNY Mellon where she currently manages the Global Summer Analyst Program. She is also very engaged with BNY Mellon multicultural business resource group, IMPACT where serves as their Chief of Staff. She completed her Bachelors in Advertising at Temple University in Philadelphia, as well as her Master’s degree in Human Resources Management and Employer Relations at Penn State University.

In her free time, she loves to travel, read, write and anything that spikes her adrenaline (IE sky diving, bungee jumping, fast cars, etc.)

Audra Beatty is the Corporate HR Manager at Carmeuse, a global mining & manufacturing company specializing in high calcium and dolomitic lime and limestone products. Audra joined Carmeuse in 2014 as HR Generalist. Currently as Corporate HR Manager, Audra oversees Corporate programs and vendors, business processes, immigration, policies and employee relations. Recently, Audra acted as Project Manager leading a global team comprised of HR, Finance and IT members to standardize and automate their termination processes globally, significantly reducing their risk and liability while increasing efficiency. Audra is enthusiastic about talent development, diversity planning, process efficiency and strategic planning for the future of work.

Audra holds a Bachelors in Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh, a Masters in Business Administration and a Masters in Human Resources; both earned at Robert Morris University. Born and raised in East Brady, a small town 60-miles north of Pittsburgh on the Allegheny River, Audra now resides in Robinson Township where she is active in her community; participating in their homeowners association board of directors and volunteering at Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church. As a military spouse, Audra is carrying her commitment to veterans into Carmeuse through outreach and hiring. Audra and her husband, Alex, enjoy spending time with their families, exercising and enjoying the outdoors and can often be found on the Montour Trail with their dog, Grover.

Brittney Krieger is an HRIS Analyst for Bayer US. Brittney is active in diversity and inclusion initiatives at Bayer and has established Pittsburgh branches of 2 Employee Resource Groups (AAHA and BLEND) at the company aimed with increasing awareness engagement and retention of African American, Hispanic and LGBT + employees of Bayer. Originally from New Jersey, Brittney has lived in Pittsburgh for the past 12 years and finds herself being a constant advocate for the potential of the region.She holds a BA in Psychology from Carnegie Mellon University with a focus on Organizational behavior.

Emma has lived in the Pittsburgh region for just over two years. She recently made the commitment to stay in Pittsburgh after completing her Master in Public Administration degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA). During her time as GSPIA, Emma found a sense of community in the region that she has never felt before. As a new Pittsburgh resident and an advocate for the diversity and inclusion, Emma finds the Next Generation Council to be an ideal way to remain active in her community and focus on improving racial equity and generational inclusion. Emma has join the Next Generation Council to contribute to the intentionality and effectiveness of efforts to grow and improve the region, ensuring an inclusive, welcoming, and thriving region for all.

Hannah Darkey is the Corporate Recruiter at Larson Design Group. She has worked in the marketing, sales, technology, leadership, engineering, architecture, and education sectors. While spending the past 5+ years in recruiting she developed a passion for finding and matching top talent to the best possible careers available. She has helped many people, and organizations find the best career fit on both sides of the table. She is a member of Larson Design Group’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee, and is passionate about the organization’s commitment to diversity & inclusion Hannah holds a M.S. in Human Resources Management from La Roche University, and a B.S. Degree in Business from Point Park University. Hannah was born and raised in the Greater Pittsburgh area, and she is excited to be part of the conversation with the Next Generation Council.