About

Hi Im Rosanna! I am a designer and researcher with a background in architecture, urban studies, and public health. My work focuses on public interest design, and advancing social equity through thoughtful design and strategy.

I am currently based in New York City, where I was also raised. I am deeply inspired by my experiences migrating from the Dominican Republic. This background informs my exploration of themes such as memory, belonging and cultural heritage in public space, and guides my commitment to fostering resilience within communities.

I am currently seeking opportunities to apply my skills in design, research, strategy and am always open to collaborate on aligned projects.

꩜ rosannav.contact@[gmail][.][com]

Education

Master of Architecture
 | 2024 Rhode Island School of Design

Bachelors of Science in Architecture | 2021 University at Buffalo, Cum Laude Minor in Environmental Design

Work Experience

2024 | Research Fellow
RISD, Providence, RI

2023 | Urban Planning Intern
Hester Street, New York, NY

2022-2023 | Architecture Fellow
Architects FORA, Remote

2022 | Project Partner
BlackSpace, New York, NY

Familiar:

Arc GIS
Sketchup
Lumion

Technical Experience

Profficient:

Rhinoceros
Revit
AutoCAD
VRay
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe InDesign Procreate

Fabrication:

Lasercutting
CNC
Woodworking
Vacuum forming
Industrial sewing
Pattern-making
 

Honors

Presidential Fellowship
Rhode Island School of Design, 2022-2024

Alpha Rho Chi Medal
Awarded for professional leadership and service, University at Buffalo, 2021

Presenter, Celebration of Academic Excellence
LSAMP Research Program, University at Buffalo, 2021

LSAMP Recipient Selected as intern for Food Systems Planning and Healthy Communities Lab University at Buffalo, 2020

Gregory Hyatts Design Award
Project “Sagano” University at Buffalo, 2018

Publications/ Presentations

“Home is a feeling” Caribbean Review of Gender Studies, ‘Gender Articulated’ Forthcoming, 2025

At Home in the Store: Understanding Urban Migrant Experience through corner stores Rhode Island School of Design, Graduate Thesis 2024

“Exploring the potential of design to create equitable food access in corner stores of Buffalo, NY.” Research University at Buffalo School, 2021

“Rebuilding the Built Environment: Pedagogy in Practice” AASAP (African American Students of Architecture and Planning) Symposium, with support from UB NOMAS, 2020