Lauren Easter
Lauren Easter was born and raised in the Midwest and moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in 2009. Lauren is a student, mother and survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault. She endured a five-year abusive relationship where she was physically, mentally and sexually abused. At the age of 24, Lauren left her abuser – a decision that almost cost her life and left her homeless. While in a women’s shelter, she recognized the need to finish school and be a role model for her son, who recently was diagnosed with autism.
Lauren is graduating summa cum laude with her Bachelor of Arts in law and philosophy and is in the Accelerated Master’s Program for Legal Studies, with a concentration in human rights. She works full time as a paralegal and advocates for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Lauren has spoken at various forums, where she shares her story of strength and perseverance. She currently volunteers with Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse, assisting women impacted by domestic violence.
Lauren is a University Endorsed Leader and serves on both the American Enterprise Institute Executive Council and the board of directors for the Tucson Paralegal Association. Lauren received the 2019 Undergraduate Centennial Achievement Award and is an All-Arizona Academic Team Scholar, Gold Coca-Cola Scholar and Guistwhite Scholar. Lauren has been honored as a Magellan Circle Scholar and recognized as an outstanding student by the Rombach Institute. She is a member of the Honors College and wrote her thesis on exploring Germany’s corporate governance structure and how it promotes more women into leadership positions in the private and public sectors.
Following graduation, Lauren will pursue a dual MBA and law degree. She wants to become an advocate attorney for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as an international human rights lawyer championing women’s rights. She intends to create a scholarship foundation to support the educational needs of women and girls around the world.