Alissa specializes in economic analysis and policy research, committed to driving impactful and inclusive change across communities through data-driven insights. With expertise in workforce development, business ecosystems, infrastructure, and the creative economy, Alissa’s work centers on utilizing economic tools to inform decision-making in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Her recent work has contributed to changes in programs and policies at the state and local level, including reallocating California state funding to support performing arts organizations disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, restoring California’s R&D tax credit to expand business innovation, and new state funding to support the growth of Maryland’s life sciences industry. Alissa previously held positions at the Milken Institute, where she led policy-oriented research to guide regional economic development, and Beacon Economics, where she focused on economic and fiscal impact assessments of various programs, organizations, and industries. She holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Southern California and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Fordham University.