Citizen Science Lab Director Honored at White House

The director of Pittsburgh’s only community biotech lab was among the 62 recipients of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, the nation’s premier volunteer award, at the White House this past weekend.

Dr. Andre Samuel was a Corporation for National and Community Service honoree celebrated at the White House briefing. He leads programming for children, teens and adults in the Citizen Science Lab, which was launched by Duquesne University and Urban Innovation 21 with foundation support.

“This award validates the outstanding work that Dr. Samuel is doing for our community and the importance of the Citizen Science Lab in providing a hands-on life science experience for high school students in our region,” said Dr. Alan Seadler, associate academic vice president for research, who was instrumental in obtaining grants to support this community asset.

Samuel was selected for his continued involvement as a BMe Community leader and volunteer, contributing more than 500 hours. He was among the first 10 black men from Pittsburgh chosen as role models by BMe Community, a national nonprofit that provides recognition, funding and networking opportunities for black men who are building sustainable economic programs in cities including Baltimore, Detroit, Miami, Philadelphia and Akron, as well as Pittsburgh.

Named the inaugural director of The Citizen Science Lab in 2014, Samuel received the BMe recognition because of his educational innovations that ignite student passions for science, technology, engineering and math. The Citizen Science Lab enriches the scientific appreciation of children and teens through hands-on experiences in after school, weekend and summer programs, encourages college students in their science and technology career preparations, and welcomes adult learners.

Samuel earned a doctorate from Duquesne in biological sciences.