We are delighted to highlight the multifaceted contributions of Ed Pettitt, a dedicated Board Member and Social Media Chair for Partnering for Peace. Ed is not only a Ph.D. student in the Urban Planning and Environmental Policy program at Texas Southern University but also an influential figure in various spheres of community development, environmental justice, and international collaboration.
Ed's academic journey includes a B.S. degree in Human Biology, Health, and Society from Cornell University and an M.P.H. degree in Healthcare Management with a concentration in Global Health from The University of Texas School of Public Health. His commitment to global health is evident through roles such as an HIV/AIDS Community Capacity Builder with the U.S. Peace Corps in Botswana from 2006-2009 and a Senior Project Coordinator with Baylor College of Medicine Pediatric AIDS Initiative at Texas Children's Hospital.
In Houston, Ed has been a key technical advisor for initiatives like The Trust for Public Lands’ Park-Smart Precinct 1 program, the City of Houston’s Complete Communities initiative, and Nature and Eclectic Outdoors’ Healthy Outdoor Communities project. His impact is tangible in the Third Ward neighborhood, where he has spearheaded initiatives like a tactical urbanism chess park and the transformation of an illegal dumpsite into a pocket park.
Currently serving as the President of the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline and Environment Chair for Rotary District 5890, Ed's leadership in environmental sustainability is evident through his involvement with Friends of Columbia Tap, the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group, and RPCVs for Environmental Action.
In addition to his remarkable contributions, Ed has been instrumental in mentorship. Notably, his guidance has extended to Diyar Talal, a trailblazing U.S. Department of State Community Solutions Program (CSP) Fellow from Iraq placed with the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline. Diyar's fellowship marks a groundbreaking collaboration between the CSP and Rotary, introducing fresh perspectives and fostering international cooperation.
As Ed's influence continues to expand globally, we applaud his unwavering dedication and leadership in the pursuit of a more equitable, sustainable, and connected world. His commitment to mentorship exemplifies the power of collaboration, learning, and shared values in fostering positive change. Together with those he guides, Ed contributes to a global community driven by the principles of equity and sustainability, shaping a future where impactful leadership and collaboration pave the way for a better world.
As Ed's influence continues to expand globally, including his mentorship of Diyar, we applaud his unwavering dedication and leadership in the pursuit of a more equitable, sustainable, and connected world. Together, they exemplify the power of collaboration, learning, and shared values in fostering positive change.