Lauren Johnson (Essential 38 – 2017) first met Leadership Austin when she was performing with Conspire Theatre, a creative writing and performance ensemble for women who are currently incarcerated in Travis County or who have experienced incarceration. Her first performance was part of Arts and Culture Day, where the class was introduced to the individuals and organizations that make Austin a vibrant place to live.

Over the years, Lauren has been part of a transition in the Essential program to first an afternoon of discussions about criminal justice, and now a full day devoted to how criminal justice affects our region. Her message to others who are considering applying to the program: “You, too, belong here.” Watch her video below:

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Lauren Johnson (#LeadEssential 38 – 2017), went from class presenter to class participant in three years. On Day 32 of 40 Stories in 40 Days, Lauren makes sure we all know Leadership Austin is for everyone, where we teach and learn together and it really is all about relationships. Now a Criminal Justice Outreach Coordinator for the ACLU, Lauren shares her story of re-entry and how the relationships she made with her cohort have stayed with her. Listen to her full story and all of the 40 Stories in 40 Days at the link in our bio. #Lead40Stories, #40 Anniversary @laurenfreenow @aclutx

A post shared by Leadership Austin (@leadershipatx) on Dec 23, 2019 at 11:56am PST

Thanks, Lauren! We’re so glad you’re here!

Is 2020 your year to apply for Leadership Austin? Review the application and start working on your essays and letters of recommendation. Applications are accepted April 1 through June 30. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to learn about cohort information sessions, application writing workshops and application review sessions.

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