Hero Scholar: Lauren Ploeg

Lauren’s passion for service and leadership is deeply rooted in her upbringing, where volunteering is a family tradition, instilled by her father. Despite not having an abundance of material wealth, her family has always found ways to give back to the community, teaching Lauren the profound impact that even small acts of service can have on others.

Lauren’s earliest memories of volunteering revolve around the big Christmas dinners her church organized for families facing medical challenges and those with unstable housing. She also participated in “Christmas in April,” a program that helped rebuild homes for low-income or physically limited seniors. These experiences taught Lauren that even seemingly mundane tasks could make a significant difference in someone’s life. Her continued commitment to volunteering, such as organizing dinners for unmarried church members, reflects her belief in the power of community and the importance of compassion.

Her leadership journey began early, with her first attempt at running for student body president in the fifth grade, sparking a desire to pursue leadership roles throughout her school years. From serving as student body treasurer and president in middle and high school to leading her Thespian Troupe, Lauren developed her skills in organization, problem-solving, and public speaking. These roles prepared her for more significant leadership positions as an adult, where she has demonstrated her abilities in increasing productivity, ensuring office flow, and boosting staff morale.

As Lauren steps into her nursing career, she is committed to continuing her journey of service and leadership, driven by the lessons she learned through her community involvement and the desire to create a positive, safe environment for those she will care for.