Lauren holds a B.A. in Planning and Public Policy from Rutgers University and a Project Management Certification from Google. Her passion for food justice has allowed her to serve as a Trenton Food Stakeholder and Community Advisory Board member. (Read her full bio here.) Here are a few Q&As to get to know her!

What does a “great place to work” mean to you?

A great place to work is one that genuinely welcomes, respects, and values people as they are. Employees on all levels feel safe, seen, and heard, and are able to thrive in a workplace culture that fosters growth, creativity, and collaboration. A great place to work is transparent and encourages ownership that allows employees to understand how their work helps to advance the organization’s overall impact.

What are you looking forward to most about joining Leading Edge?

I'm looking forward to joining an innovative and collaborative team, and marrying my experience to the work Leading Edge has been doing to continue to make an impact in the Jewish nonprofit sector.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Life is lived outside your comfort zone.

What’s your favorite place to travel?

I don't have a favorite place, but I try to be intentional about traveling somewhere new every year. I love learning about different cultures.

What's the best TV show, movie, book, or podcast you've enjoyed in the last year?

It's so hard to pick just one! The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is hands down one of the best books I've ever read. I'm currently reading Atomic Habits by James Clear and it's so good! "The Minimalists Podcast" and "Still Processing" are my go-to podcasts. "The Menu" and "Nope" are movies I've thoroughly enjoyed, and "Succession" and "Billions" are TV shows I'm anxiously awaiting to return!

If you could take a week off from your regular life to immerse yourself in learning something new, what would it be?

I would learn how to farm!

What's one thing that can instantly make your day better?

Eating a delicious meal or reading a good book.

What’s your “dance like nobody’s watching” song?

"Party All the Time" by Eddie Murphy.