Owner and Founder, Yoga U PGH
Laurel Chiappetta (M.S., ERYT200, RYT500, YACEP) is a teacher of statistics and research methods, a lifelong athlete and a long-time yoga student which has paved the way for the launch of her yoga studio, Yoga U PGH, the only yoga studio in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood. Her understanding of body mechanics and her proficiency in teaching allows her to reach students in a fun and engaging way, educating students so that they can live their best, healthiest lives. With over 20 years of experience practicing yoga, Laurel holds 200-hour and 500-hour registered yoga teaching certificate (South Hills Power Yoga and Frameworks Yoga, respectively). She also holds certifications from Accessible Yoga, Warriors at Ease, Mental Health First Aid, and is qualified as a Yoga Alliance continuing education provider.
Laurel has been a part of the Oakland community for over 35 years in the capacity of elementary school student, college undergraduate and graduate student, patient, employee, teacher, and businessperson. She is a master’s educated statistician and experienced researcher and has operated a sole proprietor statistical consulting business (now DataDIVA, LLC) for 15 years. In addition to consulting, she taught for over 10 years at the University of Pittsburgh, and co-developed TripleNote, a mobile solution for field data collection and consulting service for undergraduate research programs.
In a volunteer capacity, Laurel successfully managed and expanded instructional programs for a non-profit sports club for 4 years. She currently serves on the boards of directors for Oakland Business Improvement District (OBID) and Pittsburgh Yoga Collective. As a member of the University of Pittsburgh Center for Mindfulness and Consciousness Studies, Laurel helps with the planning and coordination of the yearly Mindfulness Fair. Her volunteer work also serves veterans at the Pittsburgh VA Hospital where she co-teaches a weekly yoga class.