Her Story
About Carissa
I am a subject matter expert in policing working for the City of Baltimore Office of Equity and Civil Rights in the Police Accountabilities Division. I am a public policy professional currently working on my doctorate in criminal justice with a specialization in policing. Prior to my nearly decade in politics and government I spent a decade in higher education and before that worked in art. I have been recognized by the City of Baltimore City Council for my dedication to the city and communities.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I'm very spiteful, and if you're gonna tell me that I can't do something, I'm gonna prove you wrong. The politically correct answer is willpower, my family and my network. Coffee keeps me going.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't be afraid to start over.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be afraid to take up space. Don't be afraid to be loud and assertive. Women just need to not be afraid to just stand up for yourself, like, take up space.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Honestly, people lying, it's a huge problem. There's a serious lack of accountability, there's a huge divide, and that divide is what is being publicized by our top administration in the country. Trying to bring people together and be inclusive is not as easy to do as it used to be.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability, integrity, equity, transparency. All of it. Integrity being the biggest one. If you don't have that, you don't have anything, in my opinion.
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