Layla Bellows
About Layla Bellows
Layla Bellows is a Community Data Analyst at Atlanta BeltLine, where she develops web mapping applications to visualize community data. With a background in journalism, psychology, and geography, she has extensive experience in data analysis and communication, previously working at the Atlanta Regional Commission and other media organizations.
Work at Atlanta BeltLine
Layla Bellows serves as a Community Data Analyst at Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. since 2022. In this role, she develops web mapping applications and story maps to visualize community data. Her work focuses on transforming data into actionable insights to support the execution of the organization's equity strategy. She plays a key role in acquiring, analyzing, and visualizing information about neighborhoods and residents surrounding the BeltLine, contributing to the overall understanding of community dynamics.
Previous Experience in Data Analysis
Before joining Atlanta BeltLine, Layla Bellows worked as a Data Analyst at the Atlanta Regional Commission from 2017 to 2022. In this position, she specialized in data analysis for the Greater Atlanta Area. Her earlier experience includes roles as a Senior Data Analyst at Neighborhood Nexus and as an Editor at World 50, Inc. from 2011 to 2014. She also worked as a Production Manager and Online Editor at Collinson Media and Events from 2009 to 2011, and as an Events Editor at Creative Loafing from 2004 to 2006.
Education and Expertise
Layla Bellows holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Oglethorpe University, achieved in 2001. She furthered her education with a Master's degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia, completed in 2008. Additionally, she earned a Master's degree in Geography from Georgia State University in 2019. Her academic background equips her with a strong foundation in data communication and analysis, particularly in the context of community engagement and environmental studies.
Specialization in Community Data Visualization
Layla Bellows specializes in developing interactive community data explorers and data communication strategies. Her expertise includes creating dashboards and content development that transform complex data into understandable insights for colleagues and partners. During her studies, she examined environmental gentrification and displacement, which informs her current work in visualizing community data for the Atlanta BeltLine project.