Tom Akiva

Dr. Tom Akiva serves as Chair of the Department of Health and Human Development and Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Education. He previously directed the Schoolwide EdD program. His research focuses on out-of-school learning (OSL) ecosystems, emphasizing equity, youth development, and citywide approaches to education. He co-authored the 2022 book *It Takes an Ecosystem*, exploring interdisciplinary learning frameworks across settings.

Key research areas include:

• Social-emotional skill development in OSL programs
• Equity in urban educational environments
• Innovative relational training (e.g., Simple Interactions initiative)
• Cross-setting collaboration through partnerships like Remake Learning Network

Recent grants include a $450K Heinz Endowments evaluation of Pittsburgh's creative learning ecosystem and a $299K NSF study on library-based STEM initiatives. His work has been recognized with awards including the 2021 Provost’s Award for Diversity in the Curriculum.

Professional service roles include editorial board membership for the *Journal of Youth Development* and advisory roles with the American Camp Association. Dr. Akiva teaches in the EdD program, focusing on practitioner inquiry and youth development theories.