Lauren Bethune oversees the program of study and all academics support initiatives at Next Steps at Vanderbilt. She works closely with a growing number of faculty and academic support services to expand academic course participation and progress. Her responsibilities include supporting admissions/recruitment, supporting faculty, collaborating with various on-campus academic supports on best teaching practices for faculty, and assisting with the evaluation of academic supports.

Lauren earned her Doctorate of Philosophy in special education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2015. During her doctoral studies, she worked with the National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center (NSTTAC) as a graduate researcher focusing on synthesizing research on evidence-based practices in academic skills, transition policy, Common Core State Standards, and 21st century skills. Prior to doctoral pursuits, she served as a coordinator for the Arc Jacksonville's Academy- On Campus Transition program, an 18-22 year old transition program dedicated to providing an authentic college experience for students with intellectual and developmental disability.