Pittman named Crusader of the Month for Chapel Leadership
Staff Sgt. Kiyana L. Pittman, Religious Affairs Noncomissioned Officer in Charge with the 42d Air Base Wing Chapel Corps, has been named Crusader of the Month.
Pittman has served with the wing for about a year, bringing with her a passion for service and community care. Before joining the Air Force, she worked as a social worker for the state of Georgia. That experience gave her opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives and inspired her to continue serving others in uniform.
In her current role, Pittman ensures chapel volunteers have the tools they need to support community events, collaborates with local partners to strengthen outreach, and engages with units to bolster morale and spiritual fitness. Pittman said sometimes that support comes through formal training and other times through small acts, such as sharing a meal and listening.
“The spark in a person’s eye that comes from feeling seen, heard, or the renewed hope they gain after experiencing a difficult time is what I enjoy most about my job,” said Pittman.
One of her most rewarding experiences came after a unit briefing when a member shared a negative encounter they had with the chapel. Pittman apologized on behalf of the individual involved and reassured the member that not everyone shared that perspective. Two weeks later, she saw the same member return to the chapel for counseling.
Originally from Griffin, Georgia, Pittman enjoys painting, museums, performing arts and cosplay. She also spends her free time with her pets, at the gym, and dancing; a passion she has pursued for nearly 18 years.
She said she is motivated each day by “the possibility that something special could happen at any moment.” She credits her aunt as her biggest role model, describing her as “an angel” who embodies unconditional love, resilience, patience, creativity, courage and femininity.
Her advice to others entering the career field is simple: “Never lose sight of the true priority; caring for people.”
