Lusheena is the inaugural Managing Director at Dancewave. In partnership with the Executive/Artistic Director, she is charged with implementing Dancewave’s strategic plan, providing oversight of the organization’s annual budget and operations, leading fundraising initiatives, and managing the construction of the new Dancewave Center in Gowanus.

Prior to joining Dancewave, Lusheena served as Deputy Chief of Staff at the New York City Economic Development Corporation. She worked closely with the President to develop and execute priority initiatives and policies across the organization. In partnership with elected officials, city agencies, and community leaders, she led a redevelopment strategy to revitalize La Marqueta, a public market in East Harlem, as a vibrant fresh food market and cultural center. She engaged local communities in projects such as the creation of a memorial for a former African Burial Ground in Harlem, construction of the East River Waterfront Esplanade in Lower Manhattan, and the Inwood NYC community planning initiative to bring investments to the area. Prior to joining NYCEDC, Lusheena worked at Hunter College in the President’s Office as the Director of External Affairs. In this role, she established partnerships within East Harlem in connection with the relocation of the Silberman School of Social Work to the neighborhood. She also secured funding from elected officials to support various initiatives and capital projects.

She holds a Masters Degree in Higher Education Administration from Baruch College School of Public Affairs and a Bachelors Degree in Women and Gender Studies from Hunter College.

Email lusheena@dancewave.org