Asha Ellison

Asha Ellison is the director of research translation and engagement at the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute. In her role, Asha amplifies the work of Institute leaders, researchers and staff on a local and national level, translating important data for consumption across various audiences, and for the benefit and use of the public and key community changemakers. Additionally, Asha builds dynamic, collaborative relationships with Charlotte-region community members and Institute partners to share authentic stories that supplement the research of the Urban Institute and bring to life data hosted by Charlotte Regional Data Trust.

She has over 10 years of professional communications experience, working previously for Girls on the Run International, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and Honeywell International. She also has over five years of experience working as a student advisor and mental health counselor.

She earned her B.A. in mass communications – magazine journalism from the University of South Florida and a M.S. in mental health counseling from the Nova Southeastern University’s Center of Psychological Studies. In her free time, the central Florida native is a freelance food culture and lifestyle writer who enjoys the arts, wine, whiskey, nature and weekend getaways.