Today, women continue to redefine their own opportunities, amplify voices that typically go unheard, and pave the way for future generations. Lauren Estes is no exception to this trailblazing spirit. Determined, strong, persistent, and decisive are a few adjectives that come to mind when describing Lauren.

Lauren joined Central Piedmont in 2014 and worked in Student Life and Service Learning before becoming an Early Childhood Education advisor at the college. Lauren believes “history is whatever you make it,” as she shares, “moments that happen in our lives – some we don’t think twice about – literally could be a life-changing moment for someone else.”

She is an advocate for students and knows first-hand the impact of going the extra mile, recalling a pivotal moment in her career where she drew inspiration from a professor who made her feel important. Lauren shares, “My professor at Appalachian State, Dr. Barnes, who was a political science professor, made me feel important. He spent the time to really engage me as a student, and I convinced myself he saw this extra thing in me. Looking back, I think every one of his students felt that way. His impact on me made me want to work in education too. I want to engage with students in a way that makes them feel not only important, but also valuable and extra in some way.”

As an advisor, she takes pride in being able to communicate directly with students, addressing their questions about their program and educational journey. Lauren has learned to be mindful and claims, “being who you are, and being authentic and speaking your truth, even if it’s in disagreement with those around you, is important”. She’s also learned that even in speaking truths, demonstrating respect for others is ultimately the best way you can advocate for yourself and share your voice.

Naming Ruth Bader Ginsburg as a strong influential role model, Lauren shares a common outlook to this notable heroine who fought tirelessly for justice throughout her career. “I’m a feminist. I believe in the equity of the sexes in all ways. Because women so often are either pushed aside or silenced, we miss out on opportunities. If we actually get to a space of equality, there’s just so much more we could all do together. I believe deeply in not just my goals, but also in my gender.”

She also has a strong appreciation for the women who’ve inspired and supported her in her everyday life. They include previous and current instructors, mentors, and colleagues. When asked, she reveals her philosophy on honoring women more effectively and meaningfully: “Celebrating, not just the massive figures in women’s history, but also the everyday people is important because I think women should see themselves as having a legacy. History is built on small moments that made an impact on someone,” says Lauren. “As a woman, I also would like to see Women’s History programs run by men. I’d like to see sessions that are catered to both men and women – there is a way for us all to enjoy and learn from women’s history.”

Lauren leaves the college community with these words of encouragement, “Women’s History Month is about remembering whose shoulders you stand on and celebrating how far we’ve come. But we also can’t be afraid to acknowledge how far we still have left to go. Acknowledging what has happened shouldn’t diminish our ability to continue to change things in the future.”