Bachelor of Science | Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | 2023 | Rural Community Development

As an undergraduate student at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Lauren Brenneman’s dedication to public service came to fruition. Immersed in the Rural Community Development Program at ABAC, she delved into the intricacies of addressing challenges that arise within communities. Through this program, Lauren acquired essential skills in policy development, effective communication to build bridges, and adeptly overcoming barriers hindering community progress. Lauren’s academic journey and hands-on experiences, including her participation in the governor’s internship program, deepened her understanding of crucial aspects such as governance, planning, funding mechanisms, fiscal oversight, and the significance of building strong relationships in driving successful outcomes for any agency or community. Additionally, her pursuit of healthcare courses provided Lauren with comprehensive insights into the various policies and regulations governing the government sector, a subject that fueled her passion for public service.

Relevant Work Experience

Lauren’s internship in the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination was a transformative experience that highlighted the profound impact of public service in driving positive change and enhancing lives within the state. She gained invaluable skills and knowledge throughout her internship in promoting public health agencies and fostering professional relationships with diverse organizations and state leaders. During her time at the office, Lauren honed her abilities in preparing briefing reports and conducting state budget reviews, essential skills for effective policy implementation. She actively participated in various webinars organized with federal partners to stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare and health policy at both state and national levels. A standout project during her internship involved assessing the progress of behavioral health initiatives. Lauren played a role in supporting the Office of Health Strategy and Coordination in overseeing the coordination of behavioral health care across the state, as mandated by HB 1013, also known as The Mental Health Parity Act. Additionally, she dedicated time and effort to a nonprofit organization, Life House. She played a key role in promoting the nonprofit’s mission through strategic communications and social media. By leveraging her skills in these areas, Lauren helped raise awareness about Life House’s initiatives that benefit young children and families in the community. At Life House, Lauren’s involvement was not just limited to communications; she also actively contributed to the organization’s store, Redeemed, which directly supports the nonprofit’s mission.