Meet the Author

 Wife. Mother. Daughter. Educator. Author. Advocate. As a native Houstonian, Lauren's diverse experiences encompass supporting & leading a wide range of students & teachers. Her commitment to empowering & shaping lives propels her to continue impactful work, creating equitable opportunities for all.  After the sudden loss of her father, retired Senior Houston Police Officer John Henry Smith, Lauren began serving as a voice and inspiration for children who have lost their parents or grandparents by authoring her first children’s book, The Gifts We Leave Behind, and serves as the executive director of the John Henry Smith Foundation, created in her father’s honor.

Lauren immensely enjoys spending valuable, uninterrupted family time with her husband and two children.