Hailing from Stafford, Virginia, Lauren joined the Batten School in 2020 while completing her undergraduate degrees in Public Policy and African American & African Studies. Following her time at Batten, she started her career in Washington, DC as a Paralegal Specialist at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) before moving to former Representative David Trone’s (D-MD-06) office as a Legislative Aide and then the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a Congressional Affairs Specialist. Today, after mainly working in the public sector since graduation, she most recently transitioned to the private sector. Currently, she works as a Sr. Government Relations Specialist at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) in Washington, DC. She works in BCBSA’s Policy and Advocacy Department where she assists the federal and state relations team in developing strategy, maintaining Member Plan relations, and advancing policy. Get to know more about Lauren below!
Why did you choose Batten?
- I wanted to join a community of young leaders who are passionate and eager to understand the importance of ethical policymaking. Batten challenged me to embrace diverse perspectives, lean into the unknown, and build bridges. I am grateful for the Batten community and know the lessons learned will take me far.
How would you describe the Batten community?
- The Batten community is active. Everyone from the students, faculty, and leadership are involved with not only making UVA a better place, but also interested in effectuating change outside of the classroom and in their own community. I was grateful to be a part of the Black Student Leaders in Policy (BSLIP) and worked closely with the Admissions Office to bring more diverse perspectives to the Batten School. After graduation, I worked on Capitol Hill and formed relationships across the political spectrum, all thanks to my education at Batten. I learned that it’s more important to listen than to be the loudest one in the room.
How were you able to explore your policy interests while at Batten?
- I took so many cool classes at Batten, but one of the highlights was Introduction to Social Policy and the Legislative Process with Professor Brooke Lehmann. I learned that advocacy is the heart of the legislative process and drives ethical policy outcomes.
What’s one way Batten helped you grow personally or professionally?
- I gained some of the best mentors through the Batten program and sustained connections with like-minded students, which has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Similarly, how did Batten prepare you for your first role after graduating or your current role? What skills and experiences at Batten set you up for success?
- Batten allowed me to share my ideas boldly and taught me not to be afraid of making mistakes. In the workplace, I am always looking for ways to improve processes and offer insight. I am an active employee who does not sit on the sidelines.
What course or academic experience was a highlight of your time at Batten?
- I really appreciated the Batten Hours, where students could hear about real-world policy issues and hear from politicians, industry leaders, and friends of the university.
Beyond academics, what are some other memories that stand out from your time at Batten?
- I am so grateful for the Deans at Batten!
What piece of advice would you give to a student considering Batten?
- Now more than ever, people of all walks of life are craving decency. They want decent, trustworthy, and kind leaders. Batten will prepare you to lead with compassion, drive, and an eye for understanding differences.
