As Managing Director of Global Partnerships and Support, Lauren Thorman serves as a key member of the Global Programs leadership team and develops opportunities to execute BU’s global strategy. She collaborates with BU schools, colleges, and administrative units to develop and expand international partnerships and programs as well as review partnerships with international institutions in the areas of research, teaching, and service. Lauren also oversees Global Programs’ international health, safety and security responsibilities.

Prior to serving as Managing Director, Lauren was the Associate Director of Global Partnerships & Support and provided support to BU faculty, staff, and students conducting educational, research, and professional services abroad. Before joining Global Programs, she directed the Center for International Programs and Partnerships at Wheelock College for 12 years. At Wheelock, she oversaw study abroad, faculty-led service learning programs, overseas degree offerings, summer programming and overall campus internationalization. Prior to her time at Wheelock College, she was the Associate Director of the Center for International Education at Suffolk University, focusing largely on international student recruitment and support.

Lauren holds an MPA from the George Washington University and a B.S. in Human Service Studies from Cornell University. She is a member of NAFSA: Association of International Educators and a graduate of the NAFSA Academy.

Lauren traveled throughout Asia in her role at Suffolk University and to West Africa, Israel, and the Caribbean through Wheelock College. She has a son who also loves travel, cooking and reading like his mother.