Marisa C. Steward, a native New Yorker of Colombian descent, resides in Brooklyn. She holds a Bachelor’s in Music Education from NYU and a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from Pratt Institute. With over 15 years of experience, Marisa specializes in program management, partnership cultivation, and DEI-focused organizational change.
Her career began as a choir teacher for NYCDOE, shaping her leadership philosophy of valuing all voices. She later joined WeMusic as Director of Education, launching music and teacher training programs across China and the U.S. Marisa then became the Director of Community Initiatives at Girls Write Now, driving community engagement and equity efforts for women of color.
Marisa’s work focuses on racial justice, equity, and inclusion. She has a strong track record in strategic planning, organizational coaching, program innovation, while embedding DEIB principles. She also specializes in corporate social responsibility, helping businesses integrate sustainable practices into their strategies.
When not leading initiatives, she enjoys raising her two daughters and a rescued Malti-poo, outdoor adventures, traveling, live music, and salsa dancing.