Credentials:
- Ph.D. Candidate, SMARTlab at Thomas Jefferson University
- Master of Social Work, Fordham University
- Bachelor of Arts in History, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Professional:
As Interim Executive Director at Shrub Oak International School and The Pines at Shrub Oak, Lauren leads the organization’s strategic vision, growth, and continued commitment to supporting neurodiverse students and their families. A founding team member, Lauren has played an instrumental role in shaping Shrub Oak’s programs, expanding opportunities for neurodiverse students, and helping build the school from the ground up. In her current leadership role, she oversees organizational development, drives strategic initiatives, and focuses on systemizing operations and developing thoughtful policies that support Shrub Oak’s continued evolution and long-term success.
With more than a decade of experience in education, Lauren began her career as a preschool teacher before transitioning into admissions and organizational leadership. Passionate about creating compassionate, family-centered environments for neurodiverse students, she has led Shrub Oak’s admissions efforts while spearheading initiatives that supported the organization’s growth and innovation. Known for her collaborative and solutions-oriented approach, Lauren enjoys building systems and processes that strengthen organizational effectiveness while ensuring programs continue to meet the complex and changing needs of students and families. Recognizing the need for specialized programming for neurodiverse students requiring intensive behavioral health support, Lauren conceived of and launched The Pines at Shrub Oak, further expanding the continuum of care available to students.
Lauren earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and her master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. She is currently pursuing her PhD at SMARTlab at Thomas Jefferson University, focusing on ways to better support autistic individuals, particularly those with co-occurring mental health conditions. Lauren remains deeply committed to fostering a therapeutic, nurturing, and empowering environment where every student can reach their full potential.
Personal:
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys spending meaningful time with family and friends, traveling to new places and immersing herself in diverse cultures, attending live music performances, and flyfishing —finding peace and inspiration in the great outdoors.
Working in Education since 2007
Working at Shrub Oak International School since 2018