Lawrence University President Laurie A. Carter
Laurie A. Carter joined Lawrence University of Wisconsin as its 17th president on July 1, 2021.
With a focus on creating new academic and co-curricular programs that combine the richness of the liberal arts with vital skills needed to excel in an evolving workforce, Carter has deepened the student experience and developed engaging community partnerships to provide a rich array of opportunities for Lawrentians.
Her data-informed strategic vision builds upon the strengths of the University and the city of Appleton. These successes include new learning spaces, enhancements to the student experience, and a galvanized focus on positioning Lawrence to thrive through the challenges of the future.
A new Business and Entrepreneurship major, revised First-Year Studies course, and expanded First-Year Experience programming have resulted in an enhanced academic environment and improved student satisfaction. Enhanced athletic facilities and support led the University to three conference championships and two NCAA bids in one year, while improved facilities for the Conservatory have led to better opportunities for students to showcase their talents. Embracing the University’s role in the community led Carter to construct Centers for Business and Entrepreneurship and Pre-Health in the heart of Downtown Appleton. The Centers boast partnerships with community businesses and healthcare providers, enabling students to intern and job shadow as part of their academic experience. They are in the University’s first new housing project in over 20 years, featuring apartment-style living for upper-class students. Carter further deepened the University’s relationship with the city by collaborating with the local art museum on a newly constructed building that features 30,000 square feet of new academic space atop a new museum. The top two floors of the building are market rate apartments that create a revenue stream for the University.
These efforts reflect Lawrence’s commitment to providing world-class academics through the College and the Conservatory, embracing a liberal arts education, and preparing students to join a vibrant alumni community of over 22,000 creators, leaders, and critical thinkers across the nation and world.
Her leadership also can be seen elsewhere in higher education and in the Fox Cities. She serves as treasurer of the WAICU Executive Committee, program chair of the Annapolis Group Board of Directors, and as a member of the ThedaCare North Region Board of Directors, the Fox Cities Chamber Board of Directors, the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center Board of Directors, and The Links, Incorporated.
Carter’s path to Lawrence includes nearly four decades of leadership in higher education, including as president of Shippensburg University in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, service as executive vice president and university counsel for Eastern Kentucky University, and extensive leadership experience in the performing arts, holding various inaugural leadership positions during her 25 years at The Juilliard School.
Carter earned a Bachelor of Science degree in communications, a Master of Arts degree in communications, and a Juris Doctor. She was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Snow College.