Noah Russo, M.S.P.P.M., Analyst, is deeply committed to supporting the unhoused population and reducing homelessness in the United States. He is proficient in data science and visualization, especially in R and Python, as well as in advanced statistical methods, including machine learning, time series forecasting, and optimization modeling. He is skilled at making data accessible and engaging, customizing his approach to communicate complex information to key stakeholders effectively. His research experience in equitable community development – specifically affordable housing, financial lending, and public policy analysis – coupled with his extensive technical skillset and growing knowledge in racial equity, allows him to create meaningful impact for community partners.
Prior to joining Community Science, Noah worked with the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, a local agency committed to building a prosperous and equitable economy for the city. There, he notably spearheaded the development of a microlending program designed to meet the immediate needs of small business owners in the city, allowing them to forego the lengthy process of applying for traditional funding. Noah also contributed to a consulting project for the Pittsburgh Community Reinvestment Group (PCRG), a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to organizing for equity in Western Pennsylvania. He interviewed key stakeholders including municipality and local government leaders, as well as experts in affordable housing, to investigate funding opportunities and facilitators that support effective funding programs. His PCRG work expanded program policy options for municipalities’ use of land banks, land trusts, and inclusionary zoning.
Noah holds a Master of Science degree in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon. In his free time, Noah enjoys live music and exploring new artists, playing videogames, and spending time with his friends.