Tampa's Downtown

Alison Garcia

Alison Garcia

Placemaking Manager

Originally from New York City, Alison earned her undergraduate degrees in History and Educational Leadership and Policy from the University at Buffalo. She later made the move to Tampa, where she earned her master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Throughout her career, Alison has remained passionate about creating holistic experiences that foster a strong sense of community and belonging.

For the past four years, Alison served as a Student Programs Coordinator at the University of South Florida, where she planned and executed a wide range of events and experiences for the university community. From heritage month celebrations and Week of Welcome programming to dinners, conferences, socials, and large-scale campus events, Alison has created a little bit of everything! Through each experience, she developed a passion for taking a vision from its earliest stages and bringing it to life through thoughtful, engaging experiences that create lasting memories and meaningful connections.

Tampa has become a place where Alison is proud to call home. She’s excited for the opportunity to help others feel that same sense of connection to the city. Alison looks forward to bringing her creativity and energy to Tampa’s Downtown—creating experiences that invite people in, foster community, and help make Downtown feel like home for those who live, work, and visit here.

My Favorite Thing to Do in Downtown

One of Alison’s favorite ways to enjoy Downtown is spending time at Henry B. Plant Park with one of her best friends, who works at the University of Tampa—a simple tradition that has made Downtown feel even more like home.

Tampa's Downtown

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