Lauren holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and has taught in both undergraduate and graduate classrooms, where she discovered how much she loves teaching. As the founder of two social ventures, including Rising Kitchens, of which she is currently the CEO (www.risingkitchens.com) and an executive in mission-driven organization, she is well-versed in turning a vision into an action plan. Specifically in building Rising Kitchens, she developed a model that helps early-stage food entrepreneurs connect with customers and launch their businesses. Her academic and practitioner experience allows her to bring both evidence-based frameworks and hands-on leadership to every learning experience, helping participants turn ideas into real impact. Lauren welcomes the opportunity to bring these skills and experience to adult learners in our community who have always dreamed of turning a talent into a business.