Carissa Garabedian

Carissa Garabedian has a diverse work experience in various roles and industries. In 1990, they worked as the Director of Admissions at Regent Hospital until 1994. From 1996 to 2001, Carissa worked in Community Relations/ Marketing at Seafield Ctr. In 2012, they took on the role of Social Media Manager at both The Dominion Club RVA and Smith Team Homes. Carissa continued this role at Smith Team Homes until 2017. Carissa also owned, published, edited, and handled sales for the local online newsletter Richmond Macaroni Kid from 2010. Carissa'smost recent role is as the Founder of KnowDifferent.net, a comprehensive site for Special Needs families in Richmond, which they started in 2014.

Carissa Garabedian pursued their educational journey by first enrolling at St. John's University from 1985 to 1988. During their time there, they focused on their studies in Education and Social Work, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. Carissa then proceeded to further enhance their qualifications by attending Fordham University from 1991 to 1992, where they concentrated on the field of social work, eventually obtaining a degree in Social Work.