PACS Grad Natalia Jackson Puts in the Work
Natalia closed out her time at PACS by earning a 2026 Community Impact Award from Café Momentum Pittsburgh. Now she’s exploring what’s next.
September 28, 2026
Since graduating from Passport Academy Charter School in the spring of 2026, Natalia Jackson has been keeping busy. She’s been working hard and recently applied to cosmetology school, which she hopes will be her next big adventure. She even found some time over the summer to go paddle boarding!
It’s a new season for Natalia, who looks back on her time at PACS with plenty of good memories.
“My time at Passport was truly so amazing,” Natalia said. “I loved the majority of the staff. The students I spent my time there with were quite spirited.”
Her time at PACS also gave her opportunities to think about her future. For her senior project, Natalia researched the accounting profession and came away with a great perspective on this potential career path.
“I learned throughout my project that becoming an accountant is way more than just managing money,” she said. “It takes genuine dedication.”
Natalia knows a little something about dedication. At her graduation, Natalia received a 2026 Community Impact Award from Cafe Momentum Pittsburgh. PACS’ Community Impact Awards recognize seniors for their senior project work and growth in areas including empowerment, entrepreneurship, career readiness, post-secondary readiness and leadership.
“Winning the Community Impact Award meant a lot to me because it showed me that my hard work and involvement in my community were noticed and appreciated,” Natalia said. “Receiving the award after graduation also gave me financial support and motivation.”
Natalia’s connection to Cafe Momentum Pittsburgh goes beyond the award. She also participated in the restaurant’s training program, impressing Program and Intern Support Manager Lamar Davis.
“She has never called off work, is always early for her shift, and is ready to go as soon as the restaurant doors open,” Davis said. “Natalia has truly shown that change is possible if you put the work in, and it has been a joy watching her grow and plan out her next steps in life.”
According to Davis, Natalia completed every aspect of Cafe Momentum Pittsburgh’s program, earned her restaurant certifications and even helped train new interns. It’s that kind of drive that made her one of only six other students to earn Community Impact Award recognition.
As Natalia explores what comes next, she has some practical advice for current PACS students:
“Don’t be afraid to network,” she said. “It’s so useful, especially if you’re going to college or trade school.”
Stay tuned as we catch up with more Community Impact Award recipients and see where they are now.