Alissa is a recognized expert in economic development communication, marketing, and social media. As the vice president of marketing for GIS Planning, she works directly with clients to develop and fine-tune marketing campaigns to promote their use of ZoomProspector Enterprise and Intelligence Components. Using the customized, collaborative approach that has always distinguished GIS Planning’s relationship with its clients, Alissa works to expand and fine-tune the reach of location brands in the highly competitive field of economic development.

With a Ph.D. and M.A. in Communication and Cultural Studies from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Alissa has worked extensively in both private and academic sectors, serving as a social media consultant for economic development agencies, full time faculty member at Concordia University’s Department of Communication Studies, a research consultant at McGill University, blogger, and multiple award-winning journalist.

As a mom of three teen daughters, I’m passionate about teaching kids safe, creative and productive ways to use digital technologies in ethical and responsible ways. I do part time advocacy work with schools and community organizations to help students, parents and teachers stay sane and safe in a wired world. As a native Montrealer, I love to take advantage of our cold, snowy Canadian winters and hot summers to enjoy time outdoors skiing, snowshoeing, running, hiking, biking, and camping with my husband and kids.