You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soulmate who will remain loyal to the end.
— Bob Marley
There are people we meet who leave lasting impressions upon our lives, and then there are people who are unforgettable—that was Lauren. With an infectious laugh and open heart, she was a big presence despite her small stature. Like a witty, sarcastic magnet, people were drawn to her and she welcomed them with open arms. In every aspect of her life, Lauren gave her all—from her studies to her personal and professional efforts—with seemingly boundless passion.
A natural nurturer, she thrived on being a loyal source of comfort and strength for her friends and family. Lauren’s friends, whether near or far, old or new, were part of her family and she made every effort for them to know they were loved and appreciated. This adoration was most on display through her culinary gifts, always finding room at her table for anyone who wished to gather for her “Friendsgiving” or to share a meal with her family. Among Lauren’s many talents was her effortless ability to bring people together. Even at nine months pregnant, hosting a baby shower for a dear friend was non-negotiable, as she always went to great lengths to show her friends and family that she loved them unconditionally.
Those of us who were fortunate enough to share the joyous experience of motherhood with Lauren were often awe-struck by how easily being a mother came to her. In addition to her sister Kim’s children, she lovingly referred to her friends’ children as her nieces and nephews, and they all knew that their “Massi” Lauren loved them dearly.
Successes in her work and personal life are abundantly admirable, yet Lauren was not vainglorious. Even after finding her calling at the Clinton School and dedicating her life to public service, her work was never about her own endeavors. Harnessing the same compassion and respect she offered those closest to her, Lauren extended that same deference to those she worked with all over the globe. The people, especially the “bubs” (babies) she encountered in her field work, populated her photography, which was another passion of hers. From Uganda to Guatemala and beyond, she measured her success through the people for whom she advocated and devoted her working life. It was their stories and achievements that motivated Lauren and she found such happiness in connecting with so many people throughout her travels.
Lauren's achievements in academia and public service were impressive and countless, but according to her, Lauren’s greatest achievement was being a wife to longtime partner and husband, Dr. Craig Seager, and a mother to sons Zephryn and Zayn. The very qualities that made Lauren a treasured friend and passionate colleague were also her virtues as a loving mom. Our Lauren had the soul of a dreamer, and through the life she built alongside Craig, her loyalty to public service and her greatest love—being a mother—she made her dreams a reality, touching countless lives along the way.
Lauren’s biography as told by her close friends, Negeen Ghasedi and Carly Cate.