DIRECTIONS
Lauren Harbert
Hello LTEN community, and happy March! With the arrival of spring just around the corner, it’s a time of fresh starts and new beginnings, and for LTEN, it’s an exciting moment of leadership evolution.
As we move into this new chapter, I’m honored to introduce new LTEN Board of Directors President Laura Last.
Laura has been an integral part of the LTEN board for the past five years, bringing passion, expertise and a deep commitment to shaping the future of learning and development in life sciences. Now, as she steps into her two-year term, she carries a clear vision for LTEN’s continued growth and impact.
“I am very passionate about what LTEN means for learning professionals in the life sciences industry,” Laura shared. “Having been a board member for the past five years and working alongside the best learning leaders in the industry, I wanted to have the opportunity to continue to shape the future of LTEN.”
In my role as LTEN’s executive director, I have the privilege of working closely with Laura and the entire board to bring that vision to life. Together with the LTEN staff, we will continue to build on LTEN’s strong foundation, ensuring that our networks, programs and professional development opportunities evolve to meet the needs of our members.
Our collaboration will focus on expanding LTEN’s role as the go-to resource for life sciences training professionals — offering valuable learning experiences and also certifications, leadership development and innovative industry insights.
Laura’s background uniquely positions her to lead during this time of growth. With more than 30 years of experience spanning clinical nutrition, sales, training and global learning leadership at organizations including Novartis, Sanofi, Amgen and now BeiGene, she understands firsthand the challenges and opportunities in our field. She has led large-scale learning teams, launched global programs and mentored countless professionals — all of which will serve LTEN well in the years ahead.
While Laura has many achievements to be proud of, she shared that her most fulfilling moments have been “having an impact on the careers and lives of others.”
“The best memories I have are of coaching and mentoring others and watching them grow and develop,” she added.
Beyond her professional life, Laura is a certified and registered yoga teacher, an avid traveler and enjoys participating in 5K and 10K races with her husband. She embodies the balance of career excellence and personal well-being, something we can all aspire to.
Her message to LTEN members?
“Get involved! Lead a workshop, write an article, participate in webinars and networking events and, of course, join us at the annual conference,” Laura said. “The N in LTEN stands for network — and one of the most valuable things you will gain is the incredible group of professionals you’ll meet.”
I couldn’t agree more. LTEN thrives because of the passionate and engaged community we’ve built together. As we welcome Laura into her new role, I look forward to an exciting year ahead — one filled with collaboration, innovation and new opportunities for our members.
Please join me in welcoming Laura as our new board president!
Lauren Harbert is executive director of LTEN. Email Lauren at lharbert@L-TEN.org or connect with her through linkedin.com/in/lauren-harbert-25373b35.
