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About Me

It's nice to meet you! I'm Lauren Wadors (Smith). 

With over 6 years in life science education and 3 years in program management, I bring a unique blend of expertise in curriculum design, science communication, and data-driven program management. I am passionate about creating inclusive and engaging learning experiences that make complex scientific concepts and trainings accessible and inspiring- whether in classrooms, community programs or corporate environments. 
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My experience ranges from developing high-impact curriculum for national research institutes and global technology companies to leading nonprofit initiatives that foster lasting community partnerships. Known for my collaborative approach and creativity, I design programs that not only educate but also empower participants to take action and create measurable environmental impact.
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What's Next? 

I’m excited to bring my experience in education, program design, and systems thinking into a corporate environment where innovation and positive impact go hand in hand. I’m especially interested in sustainability, supply-chain transformation, and developing internal and client-facing training experiences that empower people to do their best work. I’m looking for a collaborative team that values creativity, continuous learning, and purpose-driven problem-solving. In my next role, I hope to contribute to impactful STEM initiatives, learn on my feet, and help build programs that inspire meaningful change for people and the planet.

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Long term, I aspire to lead a change-making team that translates complex ideas into accessible solutions for the wider public. I am passionate about driving initiatives that improve both people’s lives and the health of our environment, and I aim to create strategies that leave a lasting positive impact.

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My Next Big Adventure

My commitment to making learning accessible through real world phenomena has driven me to pursue several competitive fellowships with the National Parks, UC Santa Barbara, and Amazon Devices & Sustainability. These programs have allowed me to gain hands-on experience in large scale program management, while strengthening my ability to create meaningful educational materials by collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Motivated by the effectiveness of these mission-focused practices, I am pursuing an MBA Certificate with Presidio University to enhance my leadership, strategic communication, and organizational skills to better serve educational and community initiatives.

Resume

Below is a snapshot of my resume. Please reach out for my full resume. 

Education

2012-2016

Bachelors in Science 
Chapman University 

BS. Environmental Science & Policy

Minor in Community Education

Graduation with Honors 

2019-2021

M.A & Credential 
San Francisco State University 

M.A Secondary Education, Thesis on Integrated Education 

Secondary Education Credential 

Life Science- Biology Credential 

2025-2026

MBA Certification 
Presidio University 

Expect Completion in Dec 2026

MBA Certification: Sustainability Management focus in Marketing & Supply Chain 

Work Experience 

2021-Present 

Lead Life Science Teacher 

Saint Francis High School 

  • Designed and led a sustainability engagement program that used data storytelling and problem-solving frameworks to inspire critical thinking about the climate crisis, reaching 400+ participants annually.

  • Directed cross-functional content strategy and mentorship, aligning messaging across teams through audience analytics and creative collaboration to ensure brand consistency and measurable program impact.

June 2025-July 2025

Lead Curriculum Developer 
Amazon Devices Sustainability 

  • Developed and facilitated curriculum and engagement strategy for a 16-week Accelerator program, guiding adult learning design and delivering professional development workshops that fostered applied learning and sustainable innovation.

  • Authored internal communications and provided strategic guidance to align cross-functional teams through newsletters, curriculum updates, and best practices in adult education and stakeholder collaboration.

June 2024- July 2024

Lean Six Sigma Curriculum Developer 
Amazon Devices 

  • Analyzed the current program and developed curated material and tools to elevate the program and promote a culture of continuous improvement within the Amazon Devices team.

  • Addressed the business challenge of implementing process improvement tools by creating an AI app.

  • Created and presented white paper to leaderships team detailing program improvements and curriculum development.

2022- 2024

Plant Ecology & Evolution Teacher Intern
UC Santa Barbara 

  • Collaborated with a graduate research team to investigate adaptive traits in native California plants through ecological fieldwork and statistical analysis.

  • Translated research into classroom practice by publishing an NGSS-aligned curriculum unit and leading statewide professional development for teachers on place-based science instruction.

2019-2021

Science Teacher

Terra Nova High School

  • Applied backwards design and formative assessment strategies to support equitable access and mastery of complex scientific concepts.

  • Fostered student agency through structured inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, preparing students to explore science-related educational and career pathways.

2019-2021

Teacher Researcher Fellowship

Channel Islands National Park 

  • Conducted ecological field research on island restoration and conservation, including habitat monitoring, species surveys, and data analysis to inform management strategies and stakeholder priorities.

  • Bridged field science with education by developing NGSS-aligned lessons and presenting research-based, conservation-focused curriculum at national conferences to promote place-based, 21st-century learning.

2016-2018

Volunteer & Communications Coordinator

OC Coastkeeper 

  • Coordinated large-scale community engagement initiatives involving 400–8,000 volunteers, managing logistics, partnerships, and communications to advance environmental stewardship and community impact.

  • Supported organizational growth and education outreach through grant writing, budget management, and the development of a marine debris program that expanded equitable access to hands-on marine science learning.

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