From infinity to beyond is the best way to describe Derrick Pitts, the Chief Astronomer and Planetarium Director for the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. He is not only the first African American to hold these dual titles at a major science institution in the United States, but he is also the first American to set this benchmark. 

From serving as NASA Solar System Ambassador since 2009 and the “Astrobiology Ambassador” for the NASA/MIRS/UNCF Special Program Corporation’s Astrobiology Partnership Program to appearing as a science content expert on the “Colbert Report” on Comedy Central and “The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson” on CBS, his reputation as a trailblazer spans the globe. However, it is his life’s work to make science and astronomy accessible for young people. 

“The saying goes - each one, reach one, teach one,” Pitts said. “My one favorite thing to do here at the Franklin Institute really is to see the lightbulb go off above someone’s head when they understand the concept that they’ve always found challenging but now they’ve been able to understand.” 

He’s had an amazing journey to the top of his profession, has broken down barriers, and opened up opportunities for thousands of young people nationwide. 

“You can always do something, you just have to find the path to do it. Never give up looking for that path and continue to follow that which excites you,” he said.