Lauren Morgan, PhD, MA

Lauren is a Research Assistant III in the Resident Equity and Community (REACH) Lab, led by Dr. Terri Lewinson at TDI. She holds a PhD in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, as well as an MA in Criminal Justice from Seattle University. Her doctoral research explored the intersection of juvenile justice and child welfare, focusing on how practitioners navigate the organizational challenges of managing dual-system youth. Lauren has published extensively on topics including child welfare and juvenile justice policy, criminal justice policy, organizational theory, policing, and dual-system youth. Before joining the REACH Lab, Lauren served as a research assistant at the National Institute of Justice, where she contributed to projects centered on the reentry experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals. She also participated in the Office of Science and Technology Policy’s Subcommittee on Social and Behavioral Sciences. In her current role at the REACH Lab, Lauren supports the development of grant proposals, conducts mixed-methods research, and authors scientific publications. Her work is dedicated to advancing equitable access to quality housing and healthcare to promote wellness among residents and communities.