Team Member Lauren Yanks

I teach literature, writing and communications at the State University of New York at New Paltz. I am a freelance writer for a number of publications. I write about a wide variety of topics. I am also an editor for companies and private clients. I am very engaged in societal issues around the world. I recently returned from a trip to Nepal, where I developed special creative writing programs for orphans and children rescued from trafficking. After visiting Taiwan, I plan to return to Nepal for a month to continue my work. I live with my husband, stepdaughter and two dogs. I grew up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—the birthplace of American independence. I have traveled throughout the world, and believe that programs like the Group Study Exchange helps to build a more peaceful world.