WHEREAS, Benjamin Aysan is an educator, community leader, and calligraphy artist dedicated to fostering cultural understanding, interfaith dialogue, and youth empowerment; and,
WHEREAS, originally from Turkey, Benjamin taught chemistry for ten years before moving to the United States in 2010. He now serves as the Community Outreach Director at the Turkish Cultural Center Pittsburgh and Peace Islands Institute Pittsburgh, where he spearheads programs that build bridges between diverse communities through dialogue, art, education, and service; and,
WHEREAS, a passionate advocate for civic engagement, Benjamin has organized numerous high-profile events such as the Annual Friendship Dinner, youth-driven community service projects, and intercultural workshops. As a calligrapher, his art has been featured at interfaith festivals, libraries, schools, and cultural events; and,
WHEREAS, Benjamin currently works as a Business Specialist at Young Scholars of Western Pennsylvania Charter School. He earned his master’s degree in School Business Leadership from Wilkes University. Benjamin is committed to educational equity, interfaith respect, and building inclusive communities; and,
WHEREAS, he currently resides in Mt. Lebanon with his wife Michelle and their two children, and he will soon transition to his new role as Director of Peace Islands Institute Boston starting in July 2025; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize Benjamin Aysan for his leadership in creating cultural understanding and friendships; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Monday, June 23, 2025 to be “Benjamin Aysan Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.