Queens Gambit Welcomes Dr. Melissa Pearlman to the Board of Directors

Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Public Schools

Queens Gambit is thrilled to announce that Dr. Melissa Pearlman is joining our Board of Directors! A dedicated educator, community leader, and advocate for student success, Dr. Pearlman brings a wealth of experience and passion for empowering young minds to our organization.

For the past 23 years, Dr. Pearlman has been a driving force in education throughout the Pittsburgh region. Most recently, she served as the principal of Pittsburgh's Creative and Performing Arts Magnet (CAPA), where she fostered an environment of creativity, excellence, and inclusivity. Her leadership has left a lasting impact on students, educators, and the broader community alike.

Throughout her tenure with Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS), Dr. Pearlman has held numerous roles, including English teacher, gifted facilitator, lead principal, facilitator for new principal induction, Summer Leadership Academy presenter, and a member of the PPS Queer Equity Committee. Her unwavering commitment to equity and innovation in education has made a profound difference in countless lives.

Beyond her contributions as a school leader, Dr. Pearlman is deeply engaged in the Pittsburgh community. She serves on the boards of the Women's Center and Shelter and Pittsburgh Playwrights Theater. She is also an active member of the Downtown Safety Coalition, working alongside civic, education, business, and law enforcement leaders to enhance safety and opportunities for young people in Downtown Pittsburgh. Additionally, she plays a vital role on the Educational Advisory Panel for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and is an alumnus of Leadership Pittsburgh (Cohort 38).

Dr. Pearlman’s academic background is equally impressive. She holds a BA in English Literature and a principal’s certification from the University of Pittsburgh, as well as a doctorate in educational leadership from Point Park University. Her research, which focuses on teacher perceptions of professional development and the importance of teacher agency, underscores her commitment to creating transformative educational experiences. She also extends her expertise to future educators as an adjunct professor in the School of Education at Duquesne University.

Residing in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood, Dr. Pearlman shares her home with her husband, two stepsons, and a lovable puppy. We are honored to welcome her to Queens Gambit’s Board of Directors and look forward to the invaluable insights and leadership she will bring to our mission of empowering young minds through chess and strategic leadership.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. Melissa Pearlman! Stay tuned for more updates on the incredible work we will accomplish together.