08/26/2026
Congratulations to Layla! We are Trojan Proud of PHS Class of 2024 graduate Layla Bearden, for her incredible academic and innovative achievements! Layla was recently named to the Dean’s List at Duquesne University, but her success didn’t stop in the classroom. After placing 3rd in Duquesene’s prestigious AI Competition with her presentation, “Reimaging Healthcare for Tomorrow”, Layla received an exclusive invitation to the Governor’s Residence!
She joined First Lady of Pennsylvania, Lori Shapiro and fellow “Hacking for Humanity” competition winners- (ranging from university sophomores to graduate students) to discuss the future of technology. Layla held her own against both team and individual competitors from multiple universities, sharing her insights on AI, addressing tech concerns, and discussing next steps to better equip everyday users in the AI realm.
Layla is the daughter of Pottstown School Board President and PHS alumni, Katina Bearden, who has actively supported the district for decades. This family represents a legacy of generational success, and give us all more reason to say, 🤍💙
