MSU senior’s collegiate, future plans reflect MSU’s core values

Contact: Kristin K. Anderson, University Relations: (517) 353-8819, ander284@msu.edu

May 2, 2007

EAST LANSING, Mich. — Lauren Beach, a Michigan State University graduating senior, said she “multitasks like nobody’s business.”

Like many other MSU graduates, her resume’s a virtual whirlwind of accomplishments.

During her undergraduate studies the St. Clair Shores student has interned at the World Health Organization, researched HIV vaccines and co-organized the “I Stop Hate: MSU United” campus inclusion initiative.

She said the university’s values parallel those instilled in her as a child.

“Ever since I was four years old and my mother taught me my first prayer, it has been my goal to make the world a better place for all people,” said Beach, who will receive a dual degree in social relations, and microbiology and molecular genetics.

“The fact that my achievements correlate with the goals of Boldness by Design, an initiative started by MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, reinforces to me that MSU’s number one purpose truly is to make campus, society and the world a better place,” she added.

Boldness by Design consists of five strategic imperatives: enhance the student experience; enrich community, economic, and family life; expand international reach; increase research opportunities and strengthen stewardship.

In 2006, Beach spent four months in Geneva as an intern with the World Health Organization’s HIV/AIDS department. Beach, who is the MSU Lesbian Bisexual Gay Transgender and Straight Ally Alliance chairperson and fundraising coordinator, wanted to help solve a problem that affects the various groups of which she is a member.

Throughout her internship, Beach developed advocacy materials and an international mailing list of more than 1,000 experts worldwide to help resource-limited countries prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

She said the experience was the professional highlight of her collegiate career, but she also takes pride in her ability to transcend boundaries through her leadership.

As the co-organizer for the “I Stop Hate: MSU United” initiative, Beach brought together the leaders of diverse student groups to promote an inclusive campus environment. The group recently sponsored a charity walk benefiting the MSU Student Food Bank and the American Red Cross on April 15 that raised approximately $1,000.

Beach now has her sights set on becoming the second female commissioner in the history of the Food and Drug Administration.

“I see issues as having many different components, and to be the best leader you need to bring them all together,” Beach said. “All the science, policy and law I’ve gained experience in while at MSU are going to help me be the best at the FDA.”

Beach credits MSU with transforming her into the leader she is today, saying she is a completely different person now than when she first stepped onto campus.

“I’ve really become much more self-actualized and self-confident,” she said. “And, I’ve become much more politically aware.”

After graduating, Beach will work on a joint degree in the University of Minnesota’s Law, Health, and the Life Sciences program. The university granted her some of the top scholarships for the program, including a fellowship from its Department of Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology and Genetics.

When she’s not busy in the HIV lab and studying food and drug law at the University of Minnesota, she still plans to be a mentor and volunteer her time in community projects.

“I don’t see how you would have a satisfactory life if you don’t give back to your community,” Beach said. “It’s amazing the types of rewards and happiness this can bring you.”

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Michigan State University has been advancing knowledge and transforming lives through innovative teaching, research and outreach for more than 150 years. MSU is known internationally as a major public university with global reach and extraordinary impact. Its 16 degree-granting colleges attract scholars worldwide who are interested in combining education with practical problem solving.