Program Evaluation Associate

Laurie is a delightful data professional with over 25 years of experience. She began her career in sports medicine as an Athletic Trainer, supporting the health and safety of middle and high school athletes, an experience that first sparked her interest in working with children and understanding their development. After growing her family and navigating long evening and weekend hours, she transitioned into the field of environmental science, working in environmental analysis. She worked as an analyst, served as a department supervisor and eventually became a laboratory director. During this time, her love for data deepened, alongside her enjoyment of working with people in supervisory roles.

Personal experiences inspired Laurie to reflect deeply on her “why” and the needs of children. The sudden loss of her nephew led her to consider what truly matters in nurturing and supporting young lives. Later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she experienced firsthand how abrupt closures and loss of routine affected her three-year-old daughter, deepening her understanding of the importance of emotional safety, connection and belonging for young children.

These reflections guided her to her current role as Program Evaluation Associate at LUME Institute, where she combines her years of data expertise with purpose, focusing on improving the lives of children. Laurie works with both quantitative and qualitative data, allowing her to use her creative, playful side to bring data to life. She crafts compelling stories that help leadership engage with and reflect alongside their teams, inspiring adults to understand themselves and the children they serve more deeply, fostering environments where children can learn, grow and thrive.

When she’s not thinking about data, Laurie enjoys traveling, hiking, camping, gardening and riding the wildest roller coasters she can find with her family.