At Americans for the Arts, Lauren performs lobbying and government affairs activities, including composing position statements, monitoring federal legislation, drafting legislative proposals, and coalition building with the Congressional Arts Caucus and other Congressional staff. She enjoys teaching others how to become compelling advocates and how to pursue strong arts policy. Prior to joining Americans for the Arts, Lauren worked for a member of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives for over two years where she managed the arts, humanities, and museums portfolio. Before coming to Washington, DC, Lauren worked for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Williamsburg, Virginia. There, she held positions in the Education Outreach, Historical Interpretations, and Curatorial departments. Lauren earned her Master of Arts degree in Public History from James Madison University and her Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of Tennessee. Lauren’s passion for the arts and humanities began at age three when she first started ballet lessons and continues to this day as she enjoys dance and theater performances, museums, and visits to historic sites.