Lauren Enlow Fletcher, MPP

Associate Researcher, The University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS 66047

1Award received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree University of Massachusetts Dartmouth - MPP Cert Honored Listee License License No. Cb4bb505c8324811ba0ac1d9e3d3f3eeeb04a2b23a044c4bb6d4512f07ad9f20 Member American Evaluation Association

Her Story

About Lauren

Lauren Enlow Fletcher, MPP, is an Associate Researcher at The University of Kansas based in Lawrence, Kansas. She has spent approximately seven to eight years working in education policy and program evaluation, building expertise in analyzing how education initiatives impact students, educators, and communities. In her current role, she supports the evaluation of roughly 15–16 statewide programs funded by the Kansas State Department of Education, many of which serve diverse student populations, including students with disabilities.

Her career began after college with a year of AmeriCorps service focused on education evaluation in Philadelphia, where she worked with the Mayor’s Office of Education on pre-K program assessment. She also evaluated youth mentoring outcomes through Big Brothers Big Sisters from a parental perspective, completed an internship with the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia studying effective pre-K models, and later worked with Catholic Charities of Kansas City–St. Joseph analyzing whether case management and financial support improved community college student retention. Across these roles, she developed strong skills in survey design, data collection, and program evaluation.

In her current work at the University of Kansas, Lauren has progressed from administrative and research assistant roles into her present position as research associate. She regularly designs and distributes surveys, analyzes quantitative data using tools such as Excel, R, and SQL, and produces reports that help education programs understand and improve their effectiveness. Her professional focus centers on evidence-based evaluation, collaborative partnerships with educators and program leaders, and using data to inform decisions that strengthen outcomes for students and educators across Kansas.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Lauren

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to a combination of my professional experience, strong educational background, and commitment to impactful work. With 7–8 years in the field, I have developed my expertise through hands-on roles, and in my current position as a research associate, I evaluate 15–16 education programs across Kansas for the Kansas State Department of Education, which has strengthened my understanding of program effectiveness and statewide impact. One of my most meaningful achievements has been contributing to a statewide campaign that helped bring educators back into the field, addressing critical workforce needs. I also credit my success to my academic foundation from York College of Pennsylvania and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, which equipped me with the research, analytical, and professional skills that continue to support my growth.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I’ve ever received is that you can truly make a difference in your career and in the lives of so many people. This perspective has guided how I approach my work, reminding me to stay intentional, purpose-driven, and focused on impact rather than just day-to-day tasks.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

My advice to young women entering this field is that it is a deeply rewarding career that allows you to make a meaningful difference in the education system. Stay curious, remain committed to learning, and don’t underestimate the impact your work can have on educators, students, and communities. Even when the work feels complex or challenging, remember that you are contributing to long-term improvements in education, and your perspective and dedication truly matter.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

One of the biggest challenges in my field is ensuring that we are able to reach and support everyone who needs assistance, especially across large and diverse education systems. At the same time, this also represents a significant opportunity—to strengthen outreach, improve equity in access to resources, and develop more effective programs that can better serve educators and students. Being able to expand impact and ensure no one is left behind continues to be a key focus and motivation in my work.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I value being able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of teachers and students across the state of Kansas through my work. Contributing to improvements in the education system and supporting educators in the field is what motivates me most professionally. Outside of work, I prioritize spending quality time with my husband, friends, and my golden retriever, as maintaining strong personal relationships and balance is equally important to me.

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