From her early years in Pittsburgh to her work in linguistics, media, and social advocacy, Dr. Alexus Brown’s young and accomplished life is a testament to the power of moxie and self-discovery. In a recent conversation with SITI Girl Pittsburgh, Dr. Lexy shared her inspiring story, revealing the challenges she overcame and the vision she holds for the future.
A Pittsburgh Upbringing and the Struggles of Identity
As a child from a loving and supportive two-parent Black middle-class home in Pittsburgh, Dr. Lexy attended private schools and discovered her love for music at an early age. Learning to play the piano from Carolyn Perteete-Johnson at just six years old, she later taught herself acoustic guitar and drums. While she excelled academically, she struggled with isolation as a high-achieving Black girl in a predominantly white environment. This experience shaped her determination to forge a path where she could uplift others facing similar struggles.
Navigating Loss, Identity, and Higher Education
Dr. Lexy’s teenage years were marked by grief; she lost her aunt and grandmother, pivotal figures in her life, and found solace in her studies. At Tuskegee University, she experienced a newfound sense of belonging, surrounded by a community of Black students who had similar goals and life experiences.
She thrived academically, earning a Summa Cum Laude distinction in English with a minor in Philosophy and actively participating in two sororities, Gamma Pi Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc ®. These experiences laid the foundation for her dedication to community service and advocacy. She earned her Ph.D. in Linguistics from the University of Pittsburgh in Spring 2024, specializing in Sociolinguistics
From Linguistics Scholar to Cultural Researcher
Dr. Lexy’s academic journey led her to study linguistics, where she explored the structure of rap music lyrics. She analyzed generative syntax and the concept of sampling, studying artists like Missy Elliott and Mac Miller. Her research was well-received at international conferences, underscoring the significance of music as a reflection of cultural identity. Despite facing challenges in graduate school, including moments of self-doubt and frustration, she leaned on her community and adapted her research focus from educational policy to linguistics, embracing the value of seeking help and collaboration.
The Covid-19 Pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic posed additional hurdles for Dr. Lexy. Living with immunocompromised parents, she navigated academic pressures while prioritizing her family’s health. Despite these challenges, she maintained her passion for teaching and learning, emphasizing the importance of mutual growth in student-teacher dynamics. However, securing a stable job post-graduation proved difficult, as she faced challenges despite her qualifications.
Lexycal Multimedia: A Platform for Authentic Representation
Refusing to be defined by obstacles, Dr. Lexy transformed her expertise into action. She launched Lexycal Multimedia, a company dedicated to authentic visual representation of Black people and culture. What started as a podcast focusing on Black music and culture evolved into a multimedia platform specializing in photography, videography, and storytelling. Dr. Lexy’s work in this space aims to elevate narratives that have long been underrepresented or misunderstood.
A Commitment to Community and Empowerment
Beyond Lexycal Multimedia, Dr. Lexy’s passion for service continues through her work at the Center on Race and Social Problems at the University of Pittsburgh, where she now serves as a Senior Social Scientist.
She also holds an adjunct professorship at Duquesne University, contributing to academic discourse and research through teaching the History of Hip-Hop. Her upcoming venture, Dawn Development, will focus on professional development, women’s empowerment, and community service, reinforcing her lifelong dedication to uplifting others.
Addressing Ageism, Gender Roles, and Cultural Representation
Dr. Lexy spoke candidly about navigating ageism and gender roles in professional and academic spaces. She emphasized the importance of embracing one’s identity without apology, and standing firm in one’s authenticity. She highlighted the power of vulnerability and humility in storytelling while advocating for the unapologetic sharing of personal narratives. She believes that authenticity is not just about representation, but about reclaiming space.
A Vision for the Future
As Dr. Lexy continues to break barriers, she remains committed to fostering inclusivity, representation, and empowerment. Dr. Lexy’s path exemplifies resilience in staying true to one’s purpose. Through her work in media, academia, and community advocacy, she is shaping a future where Black voices are not just heard but celebrated. Her story is one of inspiration—a reminder that with perseverance, authenticity, and the right support system, anything is possible.
