I am an undergraduate student at Georgetown University (CAS '27) studying Physics and Science, Technology, & International Affairs. I was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas and am pursuing a career in medicine. Outside academics, I am a volunteer EMT, I am involved in the Georgetown Filipino community, and I spend my free time finding new ways to physically challenge myself (marathons, fencing, wilderness exploration, etc.).
As a Laidlaw Program Scholar, I aim to rewrite the narrative surrounding leadership as a practice defined by community impact. Especially in the field I am pursuing, there exists a strong need for advocates who lead alongside those they serve. Through the personal development inherent to the Laidlaw Program, I aim to join a unique cohort of young professionals dedicated toward social change.
My Laidlaw research project involves the identification of metabolomic biomarkers indicative of acute radiation exposure. I will utilize mass spectrometry data collected from non-human primate urine, saliva, and serum to improve upon existing radiation exposure models. I anticipate facing the coming research challenges and future opportunities available through the Laidlaw Scholars Network.
Hello! My name is Mara, and I'm a junior at Georgetown University studying Psychology with a minor in Education, Inquiry, and Justice. I'm passionate about understanding how support systems, community structures, and institutions shape outcomes, particularly for those involved in the criminal legal system. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing ultimate frisbee, exploring vintage/thrift stores, and crafting!
This summer, my research project examines cross-filed Civil Protection Orders (CPOs) filed in the District of Columbia. I hope my project will highlight the nuanced nature of intimate partner violence (IPV) and domestic violence (DV), while uncovering areas of the filing process that can be improved to increase access to justice in CPO hearings.
Feel free to reach out and connect!
Email: maralewis1017@gmail.com
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mara-lew
Colleen Dougherty
Assistant Director, Center for Research & Fellowships, Georgetown University
Colleen manages the Laidlaw Scholars Leadership and Research Programme at Georgetown University. Through her work, Colleen aims to increase accessibility in fellowships advising for all Georgetown students with a special focus on reflective practices intended to help students identify and develop personal and career goals. Prior to joining Georgetown University, Colleen served as the Assistant Director for Early Career Initiatives with NASPA- Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, where she managed professional development programs for undergraduate student, graduate student, and new professional members. Colleen holds a master’s degree in Student Development in Higher Education from the University of Maine and bachelor’s degrees in Women and Gender Studies and Anthropology from the University of Delaware.
A graduate of Cambridge University, Susanna’s professional experience includes over 15 years in senior leadership roles in international B2B and learning businesses. Susanna began her career at the Institute for International Research (IIR) where she first worked with Lord Laidlaw, rising to Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). When IIR, which was the world’s largest organiser of commercial conferences, was acquired by Informa plc in 2005 Susanna was appointed CMO of the enlarged group and also led the public company’s investor relations programmes. She subsequently joined Emap Ltd as Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer and CEO of Emap Networks, that group’s conferences business. Later she became CEO of the fashion industry forecaster WGSN and was latterly Group Content and Marketing Partner of the leading strategy consultancy Brunswick Group. A German-American raised and educated in the UK and a committed internationalist, Susanna has been involved in globally trading businesses throughout her career, directing activity in the Americas, across continental Europe, and the Asia Pacific. Susanna has been extensively involved with education and professional development over many years. She was Head of Group Training and led the commercial acquisition and integration of a portfolio of corporate training businesses whilst at IIR; and created learning academies at both Informa and Emap. She believes experiencing and appreciating different cultures promotes better global understanding, creativity and leadership. She is passionate about the power of education to transform lives; and believes that we need to develop a new generation of diverse leaders who are curious, bold and devoted to decency, truthfulness, and innovation. Susanna is committed to diversity not only as a societal imperative but as a critical component of commercial success. As an advisor to the trustees of the Foundation, Susanna first learnt about its purpose and programmes before becoming its Chief Executive responsible for the Laidlaw Schools Trust, the Laidlaw Scholars and its other education programmes. Susanna read English and Philosophy at Newnham College, University of Cambridge. She has five half blues in swimming and water polo; and played netball and rowed for Newnham.