Lauren Camp Gates

Lauren Camp Gates

Degree: 2017, MPA

Job Title: Executive Director, Down Syndrome Association of Delaware

Lauren Camp Gates (MPA '17) is the Executive Director of Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, which is truly a passion project for her. Lauren loves that she gets to work directly with families and that every day is different! On a typical day you can find her meeting a new family at the hospital, discussing sponsorship opportunities with a donor, helping to teach their adult boxing class, or planning one of their summer camps.

Lauren also serves as the National Board President for Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action—the youngest person to serve in the position. As president she collaborates with more than 100 Down syndrome organizations nationwide. Pairing her commitment to individuals with Down syndrome and her love of fitness, Lauren founded Down to Box, a national nonprofit with 13 locations that provides fitness and boxing programs. She also serves as a policy associate with the National Down Syndrome Congress. In 2021, Lauren was recognized by the Delaware Business Times as a 40 Under 40 honoree.

Lauren started volunteering for the Down Syndrome Association of Delaware in 2012 and became their part-time program coordinator in college. She began working full time for the association the first day after graduation from the University of Delaware.

While earning her degree, Lauren's senior seminar collaborated with New Castle County to address parking concerns. It was a great experience to learn how to gather community feedback and present and work with the government on a proposed solution. During high school, she worked for the mayor and council of the Town of Middletown.

Lauren lives in Wilmington, Delaware, with her husband Bryce and their dog Bailey. She has completed a 70.3 Half Ironman and loves competing in triathlons and training for upcoming races. She also runs local sanctioned Fight Nights for USA Boxing with Knockout Boxing twice a year.