While studying geography at the Maxwell School, Rose Tardiff ’15 engaged with Salt City Harvest Farm, a community initiative near Syracuse that supports global newcomers in growing food and building social connections. During her senior year, she coordinated activities and volunteers at the farm, which became central to her capstone thesis.
Reflecting on her research, Tardiff states, “It was an attempt to make some data-driven recommendations, based on the participants, their experiences and aspirations.” Her involvement stemmed from another local nonprofit, Syracuse Grows, linked with the Syracuse Community Geography Program co-directed by Jonnell Robinson.
Through these connections, Tardiff found a sense of belonging. “I came to feel like this was a place I could put down roots and be part of the community,” she says.
Currently serving as Syracuse’s first director of neighborhood and business data and evaluation, Tardiff leads a team focusing on data collection and analysis to innovate operations across various city departments. Her role aims to consolidate and interpret diverse data sources effectively. She explains, “It can be a big lift to understand what you’re working with… Data and mapping have always been a part of neighborhood development.”
Her team has been instrumental in reporting compliance with code enforcement’s rental registry for non-owner occupied housing units. They aim to establish a comprehensive database of rental properties through proactive inspections every three years. “We want to identify new rentals to inform owners of requirements,” says Tardiff.
Additionally, Tardiff collaborated on creating “Look Before You Rent,” an interactive web map displaying property compliance information alongside neighborhood amenities. The project integrates existing public data into a cohesive tool. “This project consolidates and integrates those data,” she notes.
Kelly Montague from Maxwell praises Tardiff’s work: “She’s a great example of utilizing data-driven public policy analysis with a bachelor’s degree from Maxwell.” Montague highlights how Tardiff combines public service with social science analysis using STEM technology.
Tardiff’s academic journey was influenced by her interest in environmental courses and food systems within geography. Her internship at the National Geographic Society involved creating maps using geographic information systems. “Generally, geography is super interdisciplinary,” she remarks about its applicability across fields.
Outside work, Tardiff volunteers with Syracuse Grows and engages in pottery as an artist and entrepreneur—skills nurtured during her university years.
Story by Michael Kelly
