Hood, Academic

Object number2023.145.1

MediumFabric; Velvet; Plastic

Credit LineGift of Ellen Sandidge

DescriptionNavy blue, golden yellow, black, and turquoise blue academic hood. Turquoise blue velvet trim. Golden yellow grosgrain fabric chevron is bordered by navy blue grosgrain fabric. Black fabric shell. Black cord loop at center of neck. Another black cord loop connects to black plastic button across back. DimensionsHeight x Width (In worn position, flat): 37.5 x 19.5 in. (95.3 x 49.5 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (Flat): 46.125 x 23.5 x 1.5 in. (117.2 x 59.7 x 3.8 cm)
InscriptionsInterior side of neck has two black fabric patches, each with one embroidered gold letter "HF".
Historical NotesUniversity of Pittsburgh trustee academic hood that belonged to Dr. Helen Faison. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree in education in 1946, Dr. Helen Faison started her professional career as a caseworker due to the lack of opportunities for African American teachers in Pittsburgh Public Schools. Dr. Faison began her teaching career at Fifth Avenue High School in 1950 before becoming the first African American counselor at Westinghouse High School. While at Westinghouse, she was promoted to assistant principal. In 1968, she returned to Fifth Avenue High School to become the first African American woman principal in Pittsburgh. Following a move to higher education, Dr. Faison returned to Pittsburgh Public Schools as the first African American interim superintendent. Previously, she became the highest-ranking woman as deputy superintendent. For her trailblazing work and commitment to students, PPS named an elementary school in her honor in 2005, the Helen S. Faison Arts Academy. The importance of education was instilled in Dr. Faison as a student at Westinghouse High School. In 1942, she received the first Robert L. Vann scholarship to attend the University of Pittsburgh. In her career as an educator, Dr. Helen Faison continued to invest in the next generation of students and educators. In 1966, she became one of the key people involved in founding NEED (Negro Emergency Education Drive) by raising $200.00 for local Black students to attend college. At the university level, she was chair of Chatham University’s Department of Education. At the Pittsburgh Teachers Institute, Dr. Faison served as director. For her work with the University of Pittsburgh School of Education, she became the first fully endowed chair in the department.

Previous owner Dr. Helen S. Faison (1924 - 2015)

Related institution University of Pittsburgh

Related institution Pittsburgh Public Schools

Related institution Fifth Avenue High School

Related institution Westinghouse High School

Related institution Helen S. Faison Arts Academy

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