Julissa Russo, is pursuing a master’s in Digital Humanities at the CUNY Graduate Center. Within this degree, she is focusing on the Digital Pedagogy area of study. She works at Laguardia Community College  as the coordinator for the  Peer Advisor Academy  program and coordinator of the scholarship program called Crossing the Finish Line. In the Carousels of NYC project Julissa worked on the social media, graphic design and was a  field worker.

Born and raised in New York City in a large, close-knit Latino family, I’ve always been surrounded by people, stories, and connections. Bridging ideas to share with others and build community has been at the core of my professional journey. 

Currently, I work as a consultant for the Administration of Child Services (ACS), where I focus on policies and initiatives that support New York’s children and families. My passion for researching the lived experiences of NYC’s youth and communities fuels much of my work. Alongside my consulting work, I channel my creativity as a bridal and salon hairstylist, crafting styles and hair colors that help people feel their best on their most important days.

Merging my data-driven mindset with my artistic sensibilities, I also serve as the lead digital cartographer and data analysis expert for the Carousels of NYC Project. Through this initiative, I use mapping and spatial analysis to highlight disparities in access to recreational spaces, advocating for a more inclusive and family-friendly city. For me, maps are more than just data points—they’re a way to tell stories, reveal hidden patterns, and bring together the worlds of data and creativity.

My professional journey reflects that dynamic blend of analytical expertise and creative expression. Whether I’m analyzing policies, styling hair, or building interactive maps, my work is driven by a deep love for New York City’s families, communities, and the ways we all navigate and shape this ever-evolving city.