The Voices and Visionaries Behind Women’s Health Advancements at Leadership and Legacies
On August 8, Adagio Health proudly presents its inaugural Leadership and Legacies: Recognizing Pittsburgh Women’s Health Heroes event, a new tradition celebrating individuals who are advancing access in healthcare, championing reproductive justice, and creating lasting change for communities across Pennsylvania and beyond. The main event will be hosted at Roost in Market Square in downtown Pittsburgh from 7PM-9PM.
This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, courage, and compassion. From legislative advocacy to clinical excellence, their work reflects the very values at the heart of Adagio Health’s mission. Meet them below.
Honoring the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus Co-Chairs with the Women’s Health Advocate Award
“The Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus was created to address the public health crisis of Black maternal mortality and morbidity – not to simply talk, but to take bold legislative action. Black women deserve the opportunity to live and thrive with joy before, during, and after pregnancy. Our mission is to reverse the disturbing rates of preventable Black maternal death in our Commonwealth through transformative policy, budgetary, and cultural change.”
Founded by State Representatives Gina Curry, La’Tasha Mayes, and Morgan Cephas, the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus is driving a bold new policy agenda to confront one of the most pressing public health crises in the Commonwealth. With Black women in Pennsylvania facing pregnancy-related mortality rates twice as high as white women, the caucus is working to eliminate these disparities through legislation, advocacy, and deep engagement with Black maternal health leaders.
Representative La’Tasha Mayes
Rep. La’Tasha Mayes is the first woman to represent Pennsylvania’s 24th House District and the first out lesbian in the General Assembly. Elected in 2022, she previously led New Voices for Reproductive Justice for 18 years, earning national recognition for her leadership in reproductive rights and health equity. Her work is grounded in community organizing, policy reform, and a deep commitment to justice.
Representative Gina Curry
Rep. Gina Curry brings over 20 years of experience in education, equity, and public service to the Pennsylvania House. Elected in 2021, she champions equity in education, behavioral health, and maternal outcomes. As co-founder of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus, she focuses on addressing systemic disparities and empowering youth and families.
Representative Morgan Cephas
Rep. Morgan Cephas has prioritized maternal health since joining the Pennsylvania House in 2016, advancing policies to improve care and reduce mortality. A former Co-Chair of the Women’s Health Caucus and current Chair of the Philadelphia House Delegation, she has secured major public investments in healthcare, community development, and youth opportunity.
Honoring Two Pittsburgh Clinical Champions with the Women’s Health Provider Award
“Health equity must be global, intentional, and grounded in justice. We can, and must, design systems that meet people where they are, no matter where they live.” – Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew, MD
Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew is an OB-GYN, U.S. Navy veteran, and global health advocate. As Chief Clinical Officer at Highmark Health and Chair of OB-GYN at Drexel University, she leads with a systems-level focus on health equity. She also founded JUSTWONDOOR, a nonprofit improving maternal and infant outcomes worldwide.
“Young people deserve care that affirms their experiences, meets their needs, and protects their future. That is what drives my work every day.” – Dr. Elizabeth Miller
Dr. Elizabeth Miller is a nationally recognized expert in adolescent medicine, public health, and violence prevention. A distinguished professor at the University of Pittsburgh and Medical Director of Community Health at UPMC Children’s Hospital, she has spent over two decades advancing care for system-involved youth and addressing health disparities.
To learn more or register for the event, visit Leadership and Legacies 2025 Registration Page
