Lauren Cooney

Lauren Cooney comes to World Class Academy after eight years of working in education in a variety of settings both at home and abroad. After graduating from UT with a double-major in Anthropology and English, she worked in Belize as a field archeologist and discovered an insatiable curiosity to explore, learn and teach internationally. She went on to spend three years teaching and acting as an Instructional Coach in the south of Thailand before transitioning to London where she consulted on A-levels while pursuing her MA. Her culminating research focused on promoting the well-being of international students in US higher education.

One of the ways she supports her own well-being is through spending time outdoors hiking, climbing and always seeking adventure. So after completing her MA with highest honours, she transitioned back to Austin where she was appointed the Director of Speech & Debate for a high school only minutes away from the local crag. It’s because of her love of climbing that Lauren fatefully discovered WCA, and she is thrilled to take on a role that uniquely combines her passions for experiential education, international travel and cultural immersion, supporting the professional development of educators, and promoting the well-being of students through a mindful approach to learning and athletic training.
When she’s not climbing, in her leisure Lauren enjoys learning new trades and hobbies, and this year it’s sure to be renovating her new vintage Airstream.