Lattie Thomas

University Hall House Fellow

Lauren was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A passionate advocate for community engagement and equity, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in public and nonprofit administration with a minor in political science from Grand Valley State University in April 2022. 

During her undergraduate years, Lauren served as a Resident Assistant for two years and was a founding member of her university’s Resident Assistant Council. As a Civic Engagement Mentor RA, she guided fellow RAs in integrating civic engagement into their programming and led impactful community initiatives for residents. These experiences deepened her passion for working with students and fostering vibrant living communities. 

After graduation, Lauren worked on a political campaign and with a nonprofit organization supporting the unhoused community. These roles further solidified her commitment to public service and advocacy, inspiring her to pursue a Master of Public Administration at the University of Pittsburgh. Specializing in Governance and International Public Management, Lauren aims to expand her knowledge and address systemic challenges, driven by a desire to create inclusive and supportive spaces for all. 

As a House Fellow in University Hall, Lauren is thrilled to return to the university housing space, build meaningful relationships with residents, and foster an inclusive, tight-knit community through engaging programming. 

In her free time, Lauren enjoys singing, volunteering, exploring the city, and attending concerts. 

    Education & Training

  • BA (public and nonprofit administration), Grand Valley State University