Forty Under 40: Lauren Marquette, 30

Lauren Marquette is filled with the volunteer spirit, and knew from an early age she wanted to help people.

A job offer from Susan G. Komen, where she interned while attending graduate school at the University of Arkansas, afforded her that opportunity last fall.

“I love the idea of grass-roots, average citizens working for something, and that’s what this organization was founded on,” she said.

A licensed master social worker, Marquette earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the UA in 2003 and a master’s in social work in 2006. She worked initially as a mentor support specialist for the NWA Child Care Resource and Referral Center. She then spent three yeas as a program director for the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.
Marquette, engaged to be married next spring, said she gained a different perspective working behind the scenes at the Race for the Cure in April, an event she had attended in the past only as a participant.

“I am so lucky to spend every day with truly amazing people,” she said. “They are fighters.”

Marquette co-founded NWA Democrats Work in 2009, and has been involved in several organizations including Students of Arkansas Voter Education and Arts Live Theatre Inc. She also spends time with her wine club and book club.