Dean of the Z. Smith Reynolds Library Wake Forest University
Lauren Pressley is the Chief Administrative Officer of the University of Washington Libraries, where she oversees operations including personnel, budgets, collections, partnerships, and strategic planning. In this role, she provides leadership for one of the nation’s premier research libraries and guides its long-term vision in support of students, faculty, and researchers.rnPreviously, she served as Associate Dean and Director of the University of Washington Tacoma Library and held leadership positions at Virginia Tech, where she advanced innovative approaches to teaching, learning, and technology-enhanced services.rnNationally recognized for her work in library innovation and organizational leadership, Lauren has written and presented widely on design thinking, leadership, and the evolving role of libraries in higher education. She has also served in leadership roles with the Association of College & Research Libraries (ACRL) and other professional organizations.rnHer insights promise to inspire and spark conversation about the future of access services and the ways libraries can strengthen student and faculty success.