We at AEDP are thrilled to introduce our new Small Business Director Cristina Amoruso. Previously the manager of the Commercial Revitalization Division at the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development, Cristina will now lead AEDP’s small business team as they support all small businesses in Alexandria.
Trained as an architect (University of Miami) and as a historic preservationist (Columbia University), Cristina has worked in the field of economic and community development for over 20 years. She started her professional journey by building targeted business recruitment, retention, and expansion programs in communities in Northern New Jersey and Washington, DC.
In 2008 she transitioned to the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development, where she focused on developing the City’s commercial corridors into effective, city-wide economic development initiatives while increasing equity among all stakeholders, making their prosperity more inclusive, and honoring the history and heritage of the city.
Cristina was born near Torino in Northern Italy and speaks Italian, Spanish, and French in addition to English. At home, Cristina serves as a foster ‘pawrent’ for animals in need along with her own menagerie, which includes two pit bull mixes and several cats. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, taking long walks, and exploring historical places with her husband and daughter. She particularly loves the charm of Alexandria and is excited to experience its many small businesses and their unique offerings.
Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement on a special event to celebrate Cristina’s arrival and the broader Alexandria small business community!