This Pitt-Greensburg alumnus turns generosity into a way of life
Pitt-Greensburg’s 2025 Alumnus of Distinction, Jamal Woodson, has turned generosity into a way of life. Through his Giveback King Initiative, over Thanksgiving, he bought and gave away hundreds of turkeys — no sponsors, just heart.
He’s been known to hand out $100 bills to waiters and buy groceries for an entire store of shoppers. He once surprised a teacher with $1,000 during a school assembly.
A few years ago, he supported a once-unhoused single mother for a year, earning an appearance on the “Tamron Hall” talk show. Beyond his charitable acts, he mentors teens through the CNX Mentorship Academy and Students Learning Athletics and Academics through Mentoring (SLAAM), helping hundreds of youths earn college opportunities.
Through his programs and personal donations, Woodson, an entrepreneur, estimated he’s touched more than 2,000 lives across Western Pennsylvania.
So, what drives him?
“There were times I struggled,” says Woodson (UPG ’02), a former music promoter. “I promised myself that when I got back on my feet, I’d do all I could to help as many people as possible."
All within reach: More about Pitt-Greensburg
Vital info
UPG enrolls 1,312 students across its 37 certificate and degree programs. Nursing is one of the top three majors on campus and its Student Pennsylvania State Education Association chapter has earned repeated national accolades. Plus, student-athletes compete in NCAA Division III sports.
National notice
UPG joined an elite group of colleges and universities recognized as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Education by the National Security Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The prestigious designation highlights the campus’ degree in information technology with a focus on cybersecurity.
A Pitt first
UPG is the first regional campus to partner with the David C. Frederick Honors College. In its first two years, FHC at UPG grew from 35 to 97 students.
Must-visit spot
UPG has a collection of stained-glass windows designed and installed by renowned artist and alumnus Terry Bengel (UPG ’80). These include a triangle-shaped piece that greets visitors from the Mary Lou Campana Chapel and Lecture Center, a version of the University seal showcased in the Hempfield Room of Chambers Hall and an illustration of Plato’s Allegory of the Cave displayed in the tower window of Millstein Library.
Mascot
Meet Bruiser, UPG’s beloved bobcat mascot. His life-sized bronze statue — perched on the rocks in front of Chambers Hall — is a favorite spot for students to take photos.
Did you know ...?
Members of the Pitt community contributed 71,976 volunteer hours in 2024-25. Learn more about Pitt’s Public Impact.