Lauren Smith joined the Washington Policy Center in 2025 as Assistant Vice President for Development. A seasoned philanthropy professional with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, marketing, operations, strategic planning, and donor relations, she is known for her leadership, team management, and ability to drive successful initiatives.

A Miami native and Florida International University graduate, Lauren previously served as Director of Development at Epiphany School in Seattle, where she was part of the leadership team, overseeing fundraising, events, and community engagement. Her work in philanthropy has strengthened her belief that strong communities thrive through collective action. She is passionate about advancing free-market solutions by connecting donors with opportunities to drive meaningful change.

Lauren is deeply committed to giving back to her community through various volunteer roles. She is a founding member of the Board of Directors for the San Diego Liver Coalition, an organization established when the American Liver Foundation closed its local field offices during COVID. Determined to ensure that local patients, families, and practitioners continued to have access to vital resources, support, and educational opportunities, Lauren and fellow members of the former Pacific Coast Division board, along with the previous Executive Director, created this organization to fill the gap. 

She and her husband live in Seattle with their son and golden retriever. In her free time, you’ll find her gardening, baking, and hosting dinner parties.