Laura Kellers Queen, Ed.D.
Laura Queen, EdD, is the founder and CEO of 29Bison, a human capital consultancy that specializes in mergers and acquisitions for middle-market companies. With a career rooted in human resources and administration in the life sciences sector, Laura discovered her passion for integrating people strategy into the M&A process, helping organizations unlock the true value of their workforce. Under her leadership, 29Bison has guided investors and portfolio companies through due diligence, value optimization, and post-transaction services, ensuring that human capital is recognized as a critical driver of sustainable business success. Her work balances data-driven analysis with a strengths-based, people-centered approach, aligning leadership, culture, and organizational design to create lasting value.
A recognized thought leader, Laura is also an author, speaker, and educator. She has published works including People Economics: Defining and Measuring the True Value of Human Capital and contributes regularly to professional journals on leadership and human capital strategy. In addition to leading 29Bison, she serves as adjunct faculty at Moravian University and actively participates on multiple boards, where she shares her expertise in human capital management, organizational design, and strategic leadership. Her dedication to mentorship, teaching, and public speaking reflects her commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Laura is deeply invested in her community and personal pursuits. She volunteers with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Cradles to Crayons, and the American Prairie Association, and she supports initiatives for pollinator habitats and native grasslands. She enjoys gardening, woodworking, music, reading, and spending time with her grandchildren. Laura’s approach to life and work—combining curiosity, compassion, and strategic insight—has earned her recognition as a transformative leader in human capital, creating impact not only within businesses but across the broader communities she serves.
• HPS GRAD
• The George Washington University - Ed.D.
• Habitat for Humanity of Greater Plainfield and Middlesex County
• Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association
• Moravian College
• Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success entirely to curiosity. It drives me to explore new ideas, ask questions, and continuously learn. Staying curious allows me to approach challenges with an open mind and uncover opportunities that others might overlook.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to first and foremost follow their passion. The world is constantly evolving, and you’ll need to develop expertise across multiple areas to stay ahead. Those paths can be challenging, and if you’re pursuing work that doesn’t bring you joy, it can feel completely draining. Loving what you do is essential.
I would also encourage them to walk through the doors that open for them. Opportunities often come in unexpected ways, and you never know where they might lead. The idea of a single “brass ring” no longer exists—success comes from curiosity, courage, and a willingness to explore the possibilities in front of you. Keep your eyes open and be ready to step through those doors when they appear.