Lauren Haygood - Scientist │ Influential Women

About Lauren

Lauren Haygood serves as a scientist at The Oka' Institute, which is connected to East Central University. In this role, she performs research on the Arbuckle-Simpson Aquifer located in South Central Oklahoma. She also supports additional water-related research projects and develops tools applicable to the field of hydrogeology. Haygood earned her bachelor's, master's, and PhD degrees in the field of geology, with a particular interest in the water resources aspect of the discipline. She conducts both fieldwork for sample collection and laboratory analyses on campus, followed by data interpretation to derive meaningful results. Haygood attributes her professional drive to her inherent curiosity and enjoyment of learning, as well as the guidance of mentors who have advocated for and supported her throughout her academic and career journey.

Ten minutes with Lauren

01What do you attribute your success to?

I've always been a really curious person, and I've always really enjoyed learning in school and homework. I've been fortunate to be surrounded by mentors who have really advocated for me and helped support me along the way.

02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Make the stumble part of the dance. In science and any field, there are going to be hiccups or times where things don't go the way you planned, but own it and make it part of your story because going through that makes you better at the job.