Pittsburgh’s Contributions to the World, Pt. IX

To celebrate the beginning of our 20th year, we’ve set out to catalogue the contributions that Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania have made to the world. The list has grown and grown, and despite our best efforts, we know we’ll leave out key contributors. I think you’ll find that this small city at the confluence of three rivers has played an astonishingly outsized role in the creation of this country and the world we inhabit. So, read on, and be inspired to pick up the gauntlet and take your turn in building this great American city – Douglas Heuck

August Wilson – Titan of the Stage  
One of America’s greatest playwrights, Wilson was born in Pittsburgh in 1945 and grew up in the city’s Hill District. The historically black neighborhood deeply influenced his work. Wilson’s plays, collectively known as The Pittsburgh Cycle or The Century Cycle, chronicle the African American experience across 10 decades, with each play set in a different era. Works such as Fences, The Piano Lesson, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom are celebrated for their vivid characters, lyrical language, and powerful exploration of race, identity, and history. Wilson’s writing earned him numerous accolades, including two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama (Fences and The Piano Lesson). 

He dropped out of high school but continued his education through Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Library, where he developed a passion for literature and storytelling. His early experiences in the Hill District, witnessing the struggles and triumphs of its residents, became the foundation for his plays. The neighborhood’s rich culture and history serve as a backdrop for much of his work, capturing the essence of black life in America. His plays have been performed on Broadway and adapted into acclaimed films, cementing his legacy as a master storyteller. The August Wilson Cultural Center in Pittsburgh honors his legacy, celebrating African American arts and culture.  

F. Murray Abraham – Consummate Actor 
The Academy Award-winning actor was born in Pittsburgh in 1939 and later moved to El Paso, Texas. Known for his commanding performances, Abraham achieved international fame for his portrayal of Antonio Salieri in Amadeus (1984), earning the Oscar for Best Actor. His numerous movie and television credits include The Name of the Rose, Homeland, The White Lotus, Scarface and Dead Man Walking.

Pioneering Robotic Surgery 
The first successful robotic surgery was performed in 1985 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). Using the PUMA 560 robotic surgical arm, doctors conducted a precise neurosurgical biopsy, marking a milestone in medical technology. This innovation laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of robotic systems like the da Vinci Surgical System, revolutionizing modern surgery with enhanced precision and minimally invasive techniques. 

Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski – Author of 90 books
He was a renowned psychiatrist, author, and spiritual leader who was born in Milwaukee but spent much of his career in Pittsburgh. Twerski founded the Gateway Rehabilitation Center, a leading institution for addiction treatment, combining his expertise in medicine with his spiritual insights. He wrote more than 90 books on Judaism and self-help topics, leaving a profound legacy of compassion and healing. 
 
The Pittsburgh Penguins – Five-Time Stanley Cup Champs   
The Pittsburgh Penguins are one of the most successful franchises in the National Hockey League (NHL). Established in 1967 during the NHL’s expansion era, the Penguins struggled early on but eventually rose to prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s. This success was spearheaded by the legendary Mario Lemieux, whose skill and leadership brought the team its first two Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992. 

The Penguins solidified their status as a hockey powerhouse in the 21st century with the emergence of Sidney Crosby, considered one of the greatest players of his generation. Under Crosby’s leadership, the Penguins won three more Stanley Cups in 2009, 2016, and 2017. Known for their fast-paced, offensive style and passionate fan base, the Penguins have become a defining part of Pittsburgh’s sports culture. 
 
Dr. Thomas Starzl – The Father of Organ Transplantation   
Pittsburgh surgeon Dr. Thomas Starzl found the elusive key to organ transplantation when he developed anti-rejection drugs that made numerous kinds of transplantation possible. He performed the world’s first successful liver transplant in 1967 and later refined the procedure at the University of Pittsburgh. His groundbreaking work laid the foundation for the development of immunosuppressive drugs, which helped prevent organ rejection and made liver transplants a viable treatment for end-stage liver disease. Pittsburgh quickly became a global hub for transplantation research and surgery. 

With his work, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) emerged as a leading institution for liver transplantation, performing thousands of transplants and advancing techniques that have saved countless lives. By the 1980s, the use of the drug cyclosporine significantly improved success rates, thanks in part to clinical trials conducted in Pittsburgh. This enabled patients to live longer, healthier lives post-surgery.  

Liver transplantation in Pittsburgh also set new standards for ethical and logistical practices in organ donation. The region has been instrumental in advocating for organ donor awareness and developing efficient organ procurement networks. Research institutions affiliated with UPMC explored regenerative medicine and artificial liver technologies to further improve outcomes. Pittsburgh’s contributions to this field have not only transformed healthcare but also cemented the city’s reputation as a global leader in medical innovation. 
 
Michael Chabon  – Wrote “Mysteries of Pittsburgh”  
Chabon is an acclaimed novelist known for his debut novel, The Mysteries of Pittsburgh (1988), which explores themes of identity and self-discovery against the backdrop of the city. A student at both Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, Chabon portrays Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and cultural dynamics. A later work, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” (2000), won the Pulitzer Prize. 
 
Joe Hardy – 84 Lumber
The founder of 84 Lumber, Hardy was a Pittsburgh-based entrepreneur in the home building and supply industry. Born in 1923, Hardy started 84 Lumber in 1956 in the small town of Eighty Four, Pennsylvania. His business model focused on providing builders with quality materials at competitive prices, streamlining the construction process for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Under Hardy’s leadership, 84 Lumber grew into one of the largest privately held building materials suppliers in the U.S, with hundreds of locations nationwide. His vision and drive turned 84 Lumber into a household name in the construction industry.

David McCullough-Great American Biographer 
McCullough was a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author who was born in Pittsburgh in 1933. He credited his early years in the city with sparking his lifelong curiosity about history. McCullough’s engaging narrative style brought pivotal moments in American history to life through works such as Truman and John Adams, both of which earned him Pulitzer Prizes. His books combined rigorous research with vivid storytelling, making history accessible to a wide audience. 

McCullough’s early education in Pittsburgh, including his time at Shady Side Academy, nurtured his love for reading and storytelling. He later attended Yale, where he developed a passion for history and literature. His professional career began in publishing and television, but his first book, The Johnstown Flood (1968), launched his reputation as a masterful historian. The book’s gripping account of the 1889 disaster showcased McCullough’s ability to weave human drama with historical analysis. In addition to his writing, McCullough was a popular public speaker and narrator, lending his sonorous voice to documentaries such as The Civil War by Ken Burns. He believed in the power of history to inform and inspire, often emphasizing the importance of understanding the past to shape a better future. 

Bill Zagorski – The Father of the Marcellus Shale
Geologist Bill Zagorksi is often called the “Father of the Marcellus Shale” for his role in unlocking the potential of this vast natural gas reserve. While working for Range Resources in Pennsylvania, Zagorski identified innovative methods to extract gas from the Marcellus Shale formation using hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling. His work transformed the energy landscape, making Pennsylvania a leader in natural gas production and shaping the future of the U.S. energy industry. 
 
Red Whittaker – Robotics Pioneer
Whittaker has been a driving force behind innovations in autonomous systems and space exploration. A professor at Carnegie Mellon University, Whittaker has developed robots for hazardous environments, including disaster zones, mines, and planetary surfaces. His work on autonomous navigation and rugged robotic platforms has earned him international recognition. Whittaker’s contributions to space exploration are particularly noteworthy. He has led teams in developing robots designed for lunar exploration, including his leadership in the Google Lunar XPRIZE competition, where his team worked to create a rover capable of traversing the Moon’s surface. Beyond his technical achievements, Whittaker has been instrumental in mentoring the next generation of roboticists.  
 
Michael Keaton – Beetlejuice and Batman Actor
A versatile actor and Pittsburgh native, Keaton has enjoyed a prolific career spanning decades. Born in Coraopolis in 1951, he rose to fame with his roles in comedies Mr. Mom and Beetlejuice before taking on the iconic role of Batman in Tim Burton’s Batman (1989). His performance as the Dark Knight redefined the superhero genre, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. In addition to his blockbuster roles, Keaton has demonstrated remarkable range in films such as Birdman, for which he received an Academy Award nomination, and Spotlight, which won Best Picture.  
 
Mario Lemieux – “The Magnificent One”  
Lemieux is one of the greatest hockey players in NHL history and a legendary sports figure in Pittsburgh. Born in Montreal, Canada, in 1965, Lemieux was drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1984. Over his 17-season career, he revolutionized the game with his size, skill, and scoring ability, leading the Penguins to two consecutive Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992. After retiring, he saved the Penguins from financial collapse by purchasing the team in 1999, ensuring its future in the city. Under his leadership, the team secured three additional Stanley Cup titles. Lemieux’s philanthropic efforts include the Mario Lemieux Foundation, which funds cancer research and patient care. 

Paul O’Neill – U.S. Treasury Secretary
His term leading the U.S. Treasury under President George W. Bush capped a career in which O’Neill was CEO of Alcoa, Chairman of the Rand Corporation and a national leader in advancing worker safety.

Jeff Goldblum – Actor and Musician
The tall and thin actor, a Pittsburgh native, is known for his distinctive voice and brainy eccentricity, with eclectic performances in films such as Jurassic Park, Independence Day, and The Fly. Born in West Homestead, Pennsylvania, Goldblum studied acting in New York City before launching a successful career in Hollywood. A frequent collaborator of director Wes Anderson, Goldblum also has a long history of television credits including Will & Grace. Most recently he played the Wizard of Oz in the film Wicked.
 
Ed Stack – Dick’s Sporting Goods 
The son of Dick’s Sporting Goods founder Richard Stack, Ed Stack transformed a small, two-store sporting goods store based in Binghamton, New York into a Pittsburgh-based national retail powerhouse. Born in 1954, Ed took over as CEO in 1984, expanding Dick’s into a chain of over 850 stores across the U.S.. Under his leadership, Dick’s became a leader in the sporting goods industry, offering a wide range of products for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Stack is also known for his commitment to corporate responsibility and social issues. He has made bold decisions, such as removing certain firearms from store shelves following mass shootings, reflecting his willingness to align business practices with ethical principles.  
 
Top Philosophy Department – University of Pittsburgh 
Pitt’s philosophy department is recognized as one of the world’s best. Established in the early 20th century, the department gained prominence through its focus on analytic philosophy, the philosophy of science, and the history of philosophy. Notable faculty members, including Wilfrid Sellars and Wesley Salmon, contributed seminal work that shaped contemporary philosophical thought. The department’s partnership with the university’s Center for Philosophy of Science has further cemented its reputation. This interdisciplinary collaboration has attracted scholars from around the globe, fostering debates on topics such as scientific realism and causation.  

World’s No. 1 Computer Science School – Carnegie Mellon University  
Typically rated best in the world, the School of Computer Science is recognized for its contributions to computer science and technology. Established in 1965, it was among the first dedicated computer science departments in the world. Its interdisciplinary approach combines computer science with fields like robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and software engineering, making it a leader in innovation and education. Its role in the development of artificial intelligence is particularly noteworthy. Early AI research by faculty members Herbert Simon, Allen Newell, and Raj Reddy laid the foundation for the field.  

Projects such as the development of the first computer chess program and speech recognition technologies showcased the school’s cutting-edge expertise and innovations continue in fields such as autonomous vehicles and natural language processing. The Robotics Institute, established in 1979, is another crown jewel. It has led advancements in autonomous systems, industrial robotics, and space exploration, contributing to projects for NASA and other major organizations.  
 
Dennis Miller – Comedian
He was born in Pittsburgh in 1953 and rose to fame for his sharp wit and observational humor. Best known for his stint as a cast member on Saturday Night Live (SNL) in the 1980s, Miller’s “Weekend Update” segments showcased his distinctive, often cerebral style. He later hosted his own talk shows and became a political commentator, earning multiple Emmy Awards along the way.  

Lorin Maazel – World Renowned Conductor
Maazel was raised in Pittsburgh and graduated from Peabody High School. A child prodigy, Maazel began conducting major orchestras at age 10, showcasing his extraordinary talent. Over his career, he served as the music director for prestigious institutions such as the Cleveland Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra.  

Kurt Angle – Olympic Gold Medalist  
Angle is an Olympic gold medalist in wrestling and a professional wrestling icon who was born in Mt. Lebanon in 1968. He won gold in freestyle wrestling at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, famously competing with a broken neck. Later, he transitioned to professional wrestling, becoming one of the most decorated performers in WWE history.  

PNC Financial Services – the sixth biggest U.S. Bank.
PNC’s roots go back to Pittsburgh Trust and Savings Co., founded in 1845. After many mergers and acquisitions over more than a century, it became Pittsburgh National Bank in 1959. From the 1980s on — under the leadership of CEOs Tom O’Brien, Jim Rohr and Bill Demchak ­— the bank became PNC Financial Services. The financial institution defied expectations by ultimately surpassing previously more established Mellon Bank and then becoming the surviving banking giant in Pittsburgh. Now it’s the sixth- or seventh-largest bank in the U.S. by assets, extending from the Mid-Atlantic to the Midwest and Southeast. By 2025, PNC had become Pittsburgh’s leading corporation.

Richard Simmons – Metallurgist and CEO
Simmons is a pioneering metallurgist who was involved in the early development of titanium. He led a management buyout of Allegheny Ludlum Steel, which ultimately purchased Allegheny Teledyne to become Allegheny Technologies. Simmons is a significant philanthropist in Pittsburgh and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Renée Fleming – Beloved Soprano
Fleming was born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and is celebrated for her extraordinary voice and versatile repertoire. Known as the “People’s Diva,” Fleming has sung at prestigious venues worldwide, including the Metropolitan Opera and Buckingham Palace. She has also performed in concerts, on film and television, at major public occasions and has made many recordings. Fleming’s contributions to opera and her commitment to arts education have made her a beloved figure in classical music. She has won numerous Grammy awards, a Kennedy Center Honor and is a recipient of the National Medal of Arts.

Chip Ganassi – Race Car Driver and Team Owner
Ganassi, born in Pittsburgh in 1958, is CEO of Chip Ganassi Racing, which operates four teams. After a brief career as a driver, Ganassi became one of the most successful team owners in motorsports with victories in the Indianapolis 500, Daytona 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans, among others. He is a member of the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.
 
Christina Aguilera – Pop Star and Songwriter
The Grammy-winning Aguilera was born in Staten Island, New York, but spent much of her childhood in Wexford. Her powerful voice and dynamic performances catapulted her to fame with the release of her debut album in 1999, featuring hits such as “Genie in a Bottle” and “What a Girl Wants.” Her versatile vocal range has made her one of the most successful pop artists of her generation, spanning multiple genres. Beyond her music career, she has served as a coach on The Voice.
 
John Kasich – Presidential Candidate and Governor 
The former governor of Ohio and 2016 Republican presidential candidate was born in McKees Rocks in 1952. He grew up in a working-class family before attending The Ohio State University. His upbringing in the Pittsburgh area shaped his pragmatic and straightforward approach to politics. As governor of Ohio from 2011 to 2019, Kasich focused on fiscal responsibility, healthcare reform, and job creation.  

Stanley Druckenmiller – Investor and Philanthropist  
Druckenmiller is a successful hedge fund manager and philanthropist who came to Pittsburgh after studying economics at Bowdoin College. He went to work at Pittsburgh National Bank and found that he had a knack for investing. Druckenmiller founded Duquesne Capital Management in 1981. Under his leadership, the fund achieved remarkable returns, solidifying his reputation as a skilled investor. He has advised many, including billionaire George Soros. Himself a billionaire, Druckenmiller has been a generous philanthropist, supporting education, medical research, and social initiatives. Though he didn’t grow up in Pittsburgh, he considers it to be his “hometown.” 

Mac Miller – Rapper, Songwriter and Producer  
Born Malcolm James McCormick in Pittsburgh in 1992, Mac was a rapper, singer, and producer who gained widespread acclaim for his introspective lyrics and versatile artistry. Emerging from Pittsburgh’s music scene, Miller’s debut album, Blue Slide Park (2011), became the first independently distributed debut to top the Billboard 200 chart in over a decade. Known for his authenticity and evolution as an artist, Miller left a lasting impact on hip-hop before his untimely death in 2018. 

Sidney Crosby – “The Kid” 
The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins is regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Born in Nova Scotia in 1987, Crosby was drafted first overall by the Penguins in 2005. He quickly became the face of the franchise, leading the team to three Stanley Cup championships in 2009, 2016, and 2017. Crosby’s skill, leadership, and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple MVP awards and scoring titles.  

Wiz Khalifa  – “Black and Yellow” Rapper
Born Cameron Jibril Thomaz in 1987, Khalifa is an award-winning rapper, songwriter and actor from Pittsburgh. He rose to fame with hits such as “Black and Yellow,” a tribute to Pittsburgh’s sports teams and a national anthem for the city’s pride. Known for his laid-back style and chart-topping tracks, Khalifa has become a global music icon while maintaining strong ties to Pittsburgh’s culture and identity. An entrepreneur, he has his own record label and cannabis company, Khalifa Kush.

Joe Manganiello – “True Blood” Actor 
Manganiello is a Pittsburgh-born actor best known for his roles in Spider-Man, True Blood and Magic Mike. Born in 1976 and raised in Mt. Lebanon, Manganiello pursued acting at Carnegie Mellon University before finding success in Hollywood. His versatile performances, rugged charm, and Pittsburgh pride have made him a standout in the entertainment industry.  He also gained fame for his former marriage to actress Sofia Vergara.
 
City of Asylum – Sanctuary from Persecution
Founded 2004, this unique Pittsburgh organization provides sanctuary to writers, artists, and intellectuals facing persecution in their home countries. By offering housing, financial support and a platform for creative expression, City of Asylum allows individuals to continue their work in safety. Located on the North Side, City of Asylum fosters a community celebrating free expression and diversity through its public art installations, literary programs and Alphabet City venue. 
 
Nemacolin Woodlands and Resort  
Named after a Delaware Indian Chief, Nemacolin was initially built by Rockwell International founder Willard Rockwell as a hunting preserve and lodge. In 1987, 84 Lumber founder Joe Hardy purchased the 400-acre complex and added to it considerably, opening it to the public as a resort.  Now, in addition to the main hotel, the 2,400-acre Nemacolin is home to a boutique hotel — Falling Rock — which has received AAA Five-Diamond status, along with fine dining restaurant Lautrec and numerous activities and amenities. 
 
Bruce Weber – International Fashion Photographer 
Weber is a photographer and filmmaker who was born in Greensburg. Known for his work in campaigns for Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Vogue, Weber’s photography captures a timeless and evocative aesthetic. His upbringing in western Pennsylvania influenced his artistic sensibility, which combines classic Americana with a modern edge. Weber remains one of the most influential photographers of his generation. 
 
Rob Marshall – Award-Winning Director
Marshall is an acclaimed film and theater director who grew up in Pittsburgh, where he attended Taylor Allderdice High School and Carnegie Mellon. Best known for directing the Oscar-winning musical Chicago (2002), Marshall has brought his talent for choreography and storytelling to Hollywood blockbusters like Into the Woods, Mary Poppins Returns, Pirates of the Caribbean, Memoirs of A Geisha and the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid.  
 
Luis von Ahn – CAPTCHA and Duolingo
Luis von Ahn, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, is a leading innovator in computer science and a pioneer in crowdsourcing and digital learning. He co-invented CAPTCHA and reCAPTCHA, technologies designed to distinguish humans from bots while simultaneously digitizing books and improving internet security. These tools have become ubiquitous in online interactions, revolutionizing how we ensure digital security. In addition to his groundbreaking work in CAPTCHA, von Ahn founded Duolingo, a free language-learning platform that has become one of the most downloaded educational apps globally.  
  
Mark Cuban – Shark Tank Billionaire
Cuban is a billionaire entrepreneur, investor, and owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. He was born in Pittsburgh in 1958, and Cuban’s entrepreneurial journey began in the city, where he demonstrated a passion for business from a young age. After founding and selling several successful companies, Cuban became a prominent figure in the tech and entertainment industries. He is also a television personality, appearing on the entrepreneur program Shark Tank.  
 
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – Green Innovation
One of America’s oldest and greatest conservatories, the historic landmark in Pittsburgh’s Schenley Park was founded in 1893 by steel magnate Henry Phipps to educate and inspire the public through horticulture and nature. In 2012, under the leadership of Richard Piacentini, Phipps opened the Center for Sustainable Landscapes, a building designed to meet the rigorous standards of the Living Building Challenge ­— the highest level of environmental performance, requiring buildings to achieve net-positive energy, water, and waste goals. A model of green innovation, it features renewable energy systems, rainwater harvesting, and natural ventilation.

John Thornton – Delivering to the Moon  
Thornton is CEO of Astrobotic Technology, a Pittsburgh company at the forefront of commercial lunar exploration. Founded in 2007, Astrobotic aims to make space accessible by providing payload delivery services to the Moon. Under Thornton’s leadership, the company has secured contracts with NASA and private clients, solidifying its position as a leader in the new space economy. 
 
Billy Porter – Entertainer
Porter is an actor, singer, and fashion icon who was born in Pittsburgh in 1969. Known for his Tony Award-winning performance in Kinky Boots and his Emmy-winning role in Pose.

Sunil Wadhwani – Technologist / Philanthropist
A Carnegie Mellon graduate, he is cofounder of tech companies Mastech and IGATE. Time Magazine recognized him as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Artificial Intelligence. His philanthropy is using technology to transform healthcare in impoverished areas in his native India, where his foundation oversees 700 clinics.

David Tepper – Investor / Philanthropist
A billionaire investor and philanthropist, Tepper was born in Pittsburgh in 1957. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and built his fortune as the founder of Appaloosa Management, a highly successful hedge fund. In addition to owning the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, Tepper is known for his generous donations to educational and healthcare initiatives, particularly in Pittsburgh.
 
Tuomas Sandholm  – Decision-Making Systems
A computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon University, Sandholm is a pioneering figure in artificial intelligence and game theory. Known for his work on strategic decision-making systems, Sandholm has developed groundbreaking AI programs that excel in complex tasks. One of his most notable achievements is creating Libratus, an AI that defeated professional poker players in no-limit Texas Hold’em, demonstrating AI’s ability to master strategic reasoning in imperfect-information games. His innovations have practical applications in healthcare, transportation, and e-commerce.

Bari Weiss – Journalist  
Born in 1984, she grew up in Squirrel Hill and is known as a modern-day journalistic pioneer whose thought-provoking essays dare to defy the orthodoxy that has descended on American journalism. Weiss was an op-ed writer for The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times before leaving to start the media company The Free Press. 
 
Dr. José-Alain Sahel – World-Leading Vision Institute
Dr. José-Alain Sahel, a world-renowned ophthalmologist and researcher, leads the UPMC Vision Institute and has helped to transform Pittsburgh into a global hub for cutting-edge vision care and innovation. Sahel’s expertise in retinal diseases, including macular degeneration and inherited retinal disorders, has brought groundbreaking treatments and technologies to the forefront. Under his leadership, the Vision Institute has focused on integrating research, clinical care, and education to improve outcomes for patients worldwide.