Denele Hughson, the executive director of Grow Pittsburgh, has been instrumental in promoting urban agriculture and enhancing food access across Pittsburgh. Recognized with a Women of Achievement Award, her decade-long commitment to community gardening and sustainable farming practices has transformed local neighborhoods. Under her leadership, Grow Pittsburgh has significantly expanded its reach, distributing fresh produce to thousands more people annually while fostering an inclusive work environment.

Hughson's efforts extend beyond mere food distribution; she advocates for holistic community development through urban farming initiatives. By integrating gardens into underserved areas, she ensures these spaces serve as vital resources rather than tools for gentrification. Her vision has not only increased access to nutritious food but also cultivated a sense of belonging among residents. The organization’s growth under her guidance reflects her dedication to creating thriving communities through collaboration and education.

Revitalizing Communities Through Urban Farming

Under Denele Hughson's direction, Grow Pittsburgh has redefined urban agriculture by focusing on equitable food access. As the executive director, she spearheads programs that empower communities through gardening and agricultural education. Her innovative approach includes expanding school gardens, building new community plots, and increasing fresh food distributions to vulnerable populations. This strategic effort aims to bridge nutritional gaps while nurturing healthier lifestyles.

Hughson began her journey at Grow Pittsburgh as an education outreach coordinator, immersing herself in hands-on work within various neighborhoods. She played a crucial role in embedding farm sites into their respective communities, ensuring they were perceived as beneficial resources rather than disruptive forces. Advancing to the role of director of farm education, she oversaw all organizational farms, enhancing operations, workforce development, and educational programming. Since assuming the executive director position in 2021, Grow Pittsburgh has reached over 7,000 individuals in distressed areas, nearly quadrupling its impact compared to 2020. Additionally, the number of school gardens has surged from 40 to 70, introducing young minds to the importance of fresh produce early in life. Nine new community gardens now supplement existing ones, providing essential sustenance to low-income families. These achievements underscore Hughson's ability to foster systemic change through urban agriculture.

A Leader Who Inspires Growth

Beyond her accomplishments in urban farming, Denele Hughson excels as a leader who cultivates both professional and personal growth within her team. Her tenure as executive director has fostered a supportive and long-lasting work culture, evident in the high retention rate among full-time staff members. Colleagues describe her as someone who balances operational oversight with meaningful connections, creating an environment where innovation thrives.

Ryan Walsh, Grow Pittsburgh's director of development and communication, attributes much of the organization's recent success to Hughson's visionary leadership. He nominated her for the Women of Achievement Award, recognizing her unwavering commitment to transforming communities. Under her guidance, the number of youth participants, aspiring farmers, and workshop attendees has more than doubled, reflecting her emphasis on education and skill-building. Beyond work, Hughson cherishes time with her family, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and planting herbs together. Her passion for amusement parks adds another layer to her vibrant personality. At the award ceremony, Hughson expressed humility yet pride in the collective impact achieved through Grow Pittsburgh. She emphasizes the importance of partnerships and community involvement in sustaining their mission. By nurturing relationships and encouraging collaboration, Hughson continues to inspire those around her, proving that true progress stems from unity and shared purpose.