Whether she’s leading the Panhellenic Council, volunteering with special needs children, supporting her sororities philanthropic work or hanging out in Lewis Science Center, Lauren Beene is a name heard around campus. 

As a junior psychology major with a minor in special education and a concentration in pre-occupational therapy, her heart for service is evident in everything she does. 

“I felt like I was called to do something bigger than myself,” Beene said. 

Beene’s passion for working with children with special needs stems from a deeply personal place. 

In 2018, she lost her sister, Nora, who was born with Trisomy 18, also known as Edward’s Syndrome. 

“She would have been dependent on someone for the rest of her life,” Beene said. “All she would have known was love, and I hope the kindness and compassion I show the children I work with.” 

Beene began volunteering with special needs children during her senior year of high school, helping a young boy in her community. 

This compassion carried into college, where she now works with a young girl weekly, helping her learn sign language and working with her on different skills. 

“She’s nonverbal, but we’re working on it,” Beene said. “Her parents were in awe when I sent them a video of her communicating with me…Moments like that remind me why I do this.” 

During the summer, Beene interns at Pediatric Plus Summer Camp, a program that supports children with various disabilities. She recalls the little joys that come with the work — like a camper calling her ‘Miss Green Bean’ because of his love for green beans. 

“He thought it was hilarious,” she said, “It made my whole summer.” 

Beene’s commitment to service extends into her sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha, whose philanthropy focuses on fundraisers like Spring King and Special Olympics. 

“That’s what drew me to ASA,” Beene said. “It’s been a gateway for so many opportunities, from volunteering at Special Olympics to working with children in need.” 

Whether it’s hosting fundraising events like Spring King or selling handcrafted soap to benefit their cause, she and her sisters are always finding ways to give back. 

Beyond her sorority, Beene serves as the Panhellenic President, a role she describes as both rewarding and challenging. 

“I love my sorority, but I also love and appreciate all of the other chapters,” Beene said. “Being Panhellenic President allows me to be a voice for all of them and foster a sense of unity.

“If you told me as a freshman that I’d be Panhellenic President, I wouldn’t have believed you, but I love being able to help girls find a home during recruitment. You never know what someone is going through, and for some, joining a sorority can be life-changing.” 

Beene is also a member of SPOT, Students of Pre-Occupational Therapy, which has provided her with valuable networking and volunteer opportunities, as she prepares to apply for occupational therapy school next year. 

Despite her busy schedule, Beene finds time to relax with her dog, Winifred, and spends time with her best friend Kennedy. 

“I’m a homebody,” Beene said. “I love being home and coloring on my iPad.” 

As she continues her journey, Lauren remains dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others — whether through her leadership in Greek life, her work with children or her future career in occupational therapy.