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Creating Curated Event Experiences

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Senior Event & Program Leader | Higher Education & Non-Profit Sectors
Driving Engagement • Elevating Institutional Visibility • Optimizing Operations

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About Lauren

With 18 years of experience producing high-profile events in higher education and the non-profit sector, I have successfully led cross-functional teams, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and delivered signature programs that drive engagement, fundraising, and institutional visibility.​

Career Highlights

I bring expertise in event strategy, stakeholder collaboration, and operational efficiency, with a proven ability to evaluate existing procedures, implement innovative tools, and execute mission-driven experiences. My background includes supervising large teams, overseeing major university ceremonies, and integrating events into broader development and fundraising initiatives.

Directed 300–1,500 small- to large-scale events annually, including Presidential, Trustee, and donor engagements.

Managed cross-functional teams, vendor negotiations, and technology integration to streamline processes and reduce costs.

Led 30+ international programs annually for OneWorld Health, coordinating complex logistics across four countries.

Increased student retention at St. Joseph’s University from 79% to 91% through innovative programming.

Designed and implemented workshops, events, and ceremonies tailored to market and learner needs, delivered via 30% virtual, 67% in-person, and 3% hybrid modalities.

Spearheaded targeted outreach and engagement strategies that achieved an 87% registration rate and boosted first-year retention from 79% to 91%.

Professional & Technical Skills

Professional Strengths

  • Project Management

  • Standard Operating Procedure Creation                  

  • Strategic Planning         

  • Contingency Planning         

  •  VIP Relations

  • Presentation Competency     

  • Risk Management

  • Budgeting   

  • Presentation Development       

Management Strengths

  •  Team Development 

  • Brand Strategy Alignment

  • Journey Mapping  

  • Communication

  • Conflict Resolution

  • Cultural Responsiveness

  • Leadership Coaching

Technical Skills

  • CRM Software

  • Technology Integration

  • Virtual Meetings/Conferences

  • Social Marketing

  • Work Management Software

  • Graphic Design Platforms

  • Financial Infrastructure Platforms

  • Google/Microsoft Suites

  • Engagement Software

  • Basic AV and Production Understanding

Home: Skills

My leadership style is collaborative, inclusive, and results-oriented. I am particularly inspired by leveraging innovative solutions, including AI, to advance executive development. I am eager to bring my expertise in program development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement to design impactful executive learning experiences that drive organizational success.

Fun Facts

Here’s a glimpse into my life beyond my professional endeavors.

  • First Place Winnter, Citibank Shark Tank competition 

  • I served on the Board of Directors, 250 N Village Owners Inc. for 5 years. 

  • The Gifts Concierge Founder

  •  Experienced Wedding Officiant

  • Freelance marketing experience 

  •  Freelance Event Planning, including: Weddings, Scavenger Hunts, Showers and Getaways

  • LinkedIn
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  • LinkedIn

©2025 by Lauren Purcaro. 

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