Mine Lauren Carter | Public Servant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success is my faith in God. The road to success is filed with twists, turns, and rocky paths, all of which I have encountered. However, with faith in God and persistence, I have been able to persevere in order to overcome these challenges.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I work for North America’s largest transportation agency. However, before my new position, I was employed by a local municipality for more than 17 years. I began in the Department of Planning and Community Development as the staff to the Planning Board, Zoning Board, and Architectural Review Board. Afer 8/12 years in that role, I was appointed by the city council to serve as deputy city clerk. My separation from local government occurred in early 2020, just before the COVID lockdowns. I decided to return to school and earned a Master of Urban Planning during the pandemic. I now have an assignment where my responsibilities have not only grown, but are more varied. I never thought I would help manage major budgets, including a $55 billion capital projects budget (although my business unit is responsible for about half that amount).

In addition to my work responsibilities, I am involved in civic, volunteer, and religious activities. I recently ran for city council and although I was the most experienced and most qualified candidate, I did not earn enough votes to win the primary, which would have guaranteed that my name would appear on the ballot in the general election. Nevertheless, I continue to serve my community as a food pantry volunteer. I also visit the elderly and infirmed at nursing homes and hospitals.

I believe I will be a life-long learner, which is why I desire to return to school to earn a second master’s degree or a juris doctorate degree. But first, I think it would be best if I complete writing a book on developing godly character. It’s a project that was paused while I ran for office. But I don’t view my responsibilities as keeping me busy; rather I focus on being productive and making a positive impact on people’s lives and the communities I serve.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If a friend was visiting my area for a week’s long trip, our itinerary would be full…after all, I live in one of the best cities in the world! We would take a trip to the Bronx where we would visit the Bronx Zoo, the New York Botanical Garden, and even attend a game at my alma mater, Fordham University. We would travel to Manhattan to view the many attractions including Times Square, the Empire State Building, the World Trade Center, 911 Memorial, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. And of course, we would attend Sunday service and distribute food at a local food pantry.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Apostle Dr. Faith Walters for believing in me. She has encouraged me in my efforts. She even entrusts her ministry into my care when she is out of town. I also want to shoutout Pastor Michael Jagri for his encouragement and prayers.

Instagram: instragram.com/lscarter_2000

Linkedin: Linkedin.com/in/LaurenSCarter1

Image Credits
Lauren S. Carter