Dear Esteemed Members of Our Community, Parents, Teachers, Staff, and Students, 

It has been an honor to serve as the newly appointed principal of the Universal Academy of Pittsburgh. I am excited to embark on this journey with you, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome I have already received. 

Being an educator for more than 25 years in multiple educational settings nationally and internationally has provided me with great opportunities to be close to students, parents, families, and communities from different backgrounds and ethnicities. My goal is to work diligently to provide students with the best opportunities, quality education, and leadership practices and help them be successful in their future. 

As we begin this new chapter together, I want to share my vision for our school. Our mission remains rooted in the principles of Islam, aiming to nurture not only the academic growth of our students, but also their spiritual, moral, and social development. InshaAlla, we will strive to create an environment where all students feel valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. 

As we move forward, I invite everyone to join me in making dua for the success of our school. May Allah (SWT) bless our efforts, guide our actions, and grant us the wisdom to fulfill our responsibilities with sincerity and excellence. 

Thank you for your trust and support. I am eager to know every one of you and to work together to achieve our shared goals. 

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Wa Asslamu Alykum wa Rahmatu Allah Wa Barakatuh 

Dr. Alia Arafeh 
Principal 
Universal Academy of Pittsburgh