Alana Russell

Alana Russell has a variety of work experience in the field of communications. Alana started their career as the Leafs Fund Coordinator for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment in 2006, where they organized fundraising and community programs, managed player appearances, and maintained community relations. From 2007 to 2009, Alana worked as a Communications Specialist for the Toronto District School Board, overseeing media events, strategic communications planning, and online communication strategies. Alana then became a Public Affairs Consultant for the City of Mississauga in 2009, managing strategic communication plans, developing brand strategies, and implementing policies and procedures for media and internal communications. In 2010, Alana joined the Waterloo Regional Police Service as part of their Corporate Communications team, providing strategic counsel to the Chief of Police, developing awareness campaigns, and implementing internal and external communication tools. Finally, in 2018, Alana became the Chief Communications Officer for the Waterloo Region District School Board, where they build and sustains the organization's brand and reputation, oversees media and marketing campaigns, and develops corporate communications strategies.

Alana Russell has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice and Public Policy from the University of Guelph. Alana also has a Post Graduate degree in Public Relations from Humber College. Currently, they are pursuing a Certificate in Mastery of Business Fundamentals from the University of Waterloo, which is expected to be completed in 2022.