Pittsburgh Gifted Center

Raven Haston (Class of 2019)

Barack Obama Academy of International Studies,

Assistant Track & Field Coach at Seton Hill University

Growing up in Pittsburgh Public Schools, when did you first realize that sports could be more than a game for you—and how did your school experience shape who you are today, on and off the field?

Growing up in Pittsburgh Public Schools, sports started as something I simply loved to do. It was fun. It was competition. It was being outside with friends. But I first realized it could be more than just a game when I saw how much it demanded from me — not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. There were early mornings, long practices, and moments of failure that forced me to grow up quickly. I began to understand that sports weren’t just about winning; they were teaching me discipline, accountability, and resilience.

As a Black professional athlete, how do you think about representation—especially knowing that PPS students are watching and learning from your journey?

Representation means showing that excellence comes in many forms. It means demonstrating discipline in the classroom, professionalism in public spaces, and composure in adversity — not just highlight moments on the field. For young Black students especially, seeing someone navigate success while staying grounded in their roots can expand what they believe is possible for themselves.

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you while you were still in PPS, and how can students apply that advice right now—no matter what path they choose?

Believe in your work. Bet on your growth. And don’t shrink yourself to make other people comfortable. You belong in every space your preparation qualifies you for — and more.

If PPS students remember one thing about your story years from now, what do you hope it is—and why does that message matter during Black History Month?

I want them to remember that success wasn’t accidental. It wasn’t handed to me. It was built — through discipline, setbacks, growth, and belief. I hope they see that the journey mattered just as much as the achievements. The work behind the scenes, the failures that turned into lessons, and the commitment to keep going when quitting would have been easier — that’s the real story.

That message matters deeply during Black History Month because this month is about more than remembering iconic names. It’s about recognizing everyday resilience, excellence, and impact. It’s about understanding that history is still being written — in classrooms, on fields, in communities. Representation today becomes inspiration tomorrow.

Black History Month is a reminder that progress often starts with someone believing they can step into spaces that weren’t always designed for them. If my story shows PPS students that they are capable of breaking barriers, redefining expectations, and creating their own legacy, then that’s what I hope lasts.

Because the goal isn’t just to succeed — it’s to open doors wider for the next person walking through them.