Director of Health Services and Lead Nurse Practitioner to the Health Services Staff Lauren Carlson brings over a decade of patient advocacy to Willamette, and she’s been recognized nationally for her accomplishments. Earlier this year, Carlson was honored by USA Today as Oregon’s Woman of the Year. The prestigious award — which recognizes women who lift up their communities and make an impact in the lives of many — is a perfect fit for Carlson. Over the course of her career, Carlson has used her skills as a nurse practitioner and administrator to forge deep connections with people and touch countless lives.
Before making her way to Willamette, Carlson worked at a Family Practice Clinic in Aumsville, Ore. for over 9 years, partnering with Corban University in Salem to staff their student health clinic. When Willamette’s Director of Health Services job opened, it immediately resonated with her. “It felt like the job was made for me,” she shared. “I had previously worked at Western Oregon University, so I had experience in higher education and knew it would be rewarding to work on a college campus.”
As the lead medical administrator and provider on Willamette’s Salem campus, Carlson has a massive role, and she's invigorated by the new health initiatives she’s bringing to campus. Carlson has also worked to expand access to mental health services for students. “It’s lovely that we have an integrated health system. We’re working side-by-side with counselors, which provides a very collaborative environment and a comprehensive level of care.”
Willamette is also a JED campus, which means that the university has a robust framework for mental and emotional health care that encompasses all members of the community. QPR Suicide Prevention Trainings are offered often and are open to all students, staff, and faculty. “How that relates to our office is multifaceted,” Carlson said. “We’ve instituted a mandatory suicide screening for all students who utilize health services, as well as the resources to provide interventions in times of crisis.”
Carlson is proud of how these programs at Willamette have given community members “more of a language for suicide prevention and resources,” she shared.
Above all, Carlson’s focus is educating students and imparting a holistic perspective on what health means. “We’re the wellness center, right? So wellness is very important to us, and it bleeds into my daily work,” Carlson said. “Things like stress management, adequate nutrition, regular sleep, avoiding risky substances and having good social connections — all of those things contribute to our wellness umbrella. If students feel supported and have a sense of purpose, we know it helps them be the best they can be.”
