Meet Asha Ellison, Director of Research Translation & Engagement

Asha Ellison has been named director of research translation and engagement for the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute, part of urbanCORE, a unit within the Division of Academic Affairs. Her official start date was Monday, September 18.

In this role, she will amplify the work of the Institute’s leaders, researchers, faculty and students on a local and national level, and will translate important data for consumption across various audiences for the benefit and use of the public and key community changemakers. Additionally, Ellison will help build dynamic, collaborative relationships with community members and Institute partners to share authentic stories that supplement the research of both the Institute and the Charlotte Regional Data Trust.

“We are excited to welcome Asha to our team,” said Dr. Lori Thomas, executive director, UNC Charlotte Urban Institute and Charlotte Regional Data Trust. “She brings both communications and journalism experience to us and will lead efforts to ensure the work we do connects with and continues to engage stakeholders in the Charlotte region.”

Ellison has more than 10 years of communications experience, having worked for Girls on the Run International, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Honeywell International.

“The work the researchers and leaders do at the Urban Institute is impressive and I look forward to building meaningful connections with the team and the communities we serve,” said Ellison. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to translate our research to further amplify the work of the Institute, as well as affect critical change and positive outcomes in the Charlotte region.”

Ellison received a master’s degree in mental health and counseling from the Center of Psychological Studies at Nova Southeastern University and a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with a concentration in magazine journalism from the University of South Florida.