Rexanah P. Wyse Morrissette, Esq. is an adjunct in the School of Public Policy. She teaches ENES440 Science, Technology, Ethics, and Policy: Minor Program Capstone and PLCY388G Special Topics in Public Policy; Cracking the Code: AI, Race, Gender & Policy Innovation for a 21st Century World and has taught PLCY 288A, Introduction to Public Policy Topics; 21st Century Racial Justice and Gender from the Bullhorn to the Ballot. Wyse Morrissette is a former Maryland prosecutor dedicated to changing the narrative for vulnerable populations. She currently serves as the director, executive office & strategic initiatives for the Children’s Defense Fund. Previously Wyse Morrissette served as the chief of staff at the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness.
At the beginning of her legal career, Wyse Morrissette began at the Maryland Attorney General’s Office focusing on educational issues and disability matters. She then went on to practice immigration law before pivoting to criminal justice. Wyse Morrissette led the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office's innovative early intervention program to address truancy. She then went to the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice where she led efforts of the Violence Reduction Initiative Licensing Subcommittee to address late-night business licenses to tackle criminal activity.
Wyse Morrissette's philanthropic efforts include serving on the boards for Central American Resource Center (CARECEN DC), and the University of Maryland's Lutheran Campus Ministry. She also serves on the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services State Advisory Board. She is also an alumna of the New Leaders Council, Maryland chapter.
Wyse Morrissette graduated from the University of Baltimore School of law earning her Juris Doctor degree with a certificate in Public Service. She served as the managing editor for the University of Baltimore Journal of International Law. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice and minor in Human Development from the University of Maryland, College Park. Wyse Morrissette is a licensed member of the Maryland State Bar. She lives in Maryland with her husband, Mr. Eric Morrissette and their brilliant toddler daughter.