For Ayanna Bell, data isn’t just about numbers, it’s about people, justice, and change. As a Master of Science student in Applied Economics at Marquette University’s Graduate School of Management, Bell is at the forefront of a growing movement to use localized data to uncover and ultimately address environmental health disparities.
After two years in the program, Bell’s work has made a tangible difference. In partnership with the nonprofit Data You Can Use and the MKE FreshAir Collective, her research has helped expand a network of air quality sensors in Milwaukee, offering hyper-local data to neighborhoods historically overlooked in environmental monitoring. Today, 21 sensors operate across the city, giving residents real-time information that can help them make safer decisions about when to go outside — especially those with asthma or other respiratory concerns.
“The link between poor air quality and adverse health outcomes is not only well-established but also profoundly concerning,” Bell explained. “But what’s even more concerning is how unequally that burden is distributed. Communities of color are more likely to live in areas with higher levels of pollution.”
Her passion for environmental justice is rooted in her upbringing. Originally from San Diego, CA, and raised in southern Maryland near Washington, D.C., Bell grew up with a strong appreciation for nature. “As I grew more aware of how poorly we care for the environment, I knew I wanted to help lessen that impact,” she said. That desire led her to the Trinity Fellows program at Marquette; a graduate fellowship focused on social justice and community leadership.
The Trinity Fellows program proved to be a perfect fit. “It’s been more enriching than I possibly could’ve dreamt,” said Bell. “The leadership team is so supportive, and the courses have shown me how change is not only possible but essential.”
Through the fellowship, she was placed at the non-profit, Data You Can Use, where she met Victor Amaya, the organization’s executive director. She credits Amaya and the team for encouraging her to dive deeper into Milwaukee’s local challenges. “Victor helped me understand all the great things Milwaukee communities are already doing and how I could contribute to those efforts.”
Bell’s contribution includes analyzing the relationship between local air quality and asthma-related healthcare utilization, drawing on data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Her goal is to equip community members and policymakers with data that can drive more equitable public health interventions.
Bell recently presented her work at the National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership (NNIP) meeting, a national conference dedicated to using local data to improve neighborhood conditions. She strongly encourages other graduate students to check out NNIP to get involved. “The people at NNIP are incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their insights. It’s a great space to share ideas and learn how other cities are tackling similar issues.”
Looking ahead, Bell hopes to continue combining rigorous economic analysis with community-based action. Her work is a reminder that when research is rooted in justice and shaped by those it aims to serve, it can help build healthier, more equitable cities – one neighborhood at a time.
When Bell isn’t studying or working at her non-profit site placement, Data You Can Use, Bell stays grounded through music. “On my most stressful days, music keeps me balanced,” she shared. “Karaoke is my favorite escape and a great way to connect with people.”
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