Lauren Harlow

Public Historian


Curriculum vitae



Lauren Harlow

Public Historian


Contact

Lauren Harlow

Public Historian


Curriculum vitae




Who Am I?


I am a public historian based in sunny Southern California. I am dedicated to making education and history more accessible to communities. I hold a master's degree in American History from Arizona State University, where I took classes in public history methodology, U.S. history, and African American history. My goal as a public historian is to connect people to their past and strengthen our understanding of the society we live in today.

Being a public historian is often considered a “jack of all trades,” and I am no exception. I have extensive experience in museum education, interpretation, and outreach. Working in museums means balancing the less thrilling (yes, I’m very proficient in Microsoft Office and Teams) with the more exciting—like leading education outreach in schools, conducting historical research projects, and organizing large events. I love this field and the opportunities it gives me to share history with wider communities! 

My Philosophy 

I believe historians need to actively engage the public. While it is easy for historians to study niche topics and stay in their professional lanes, public history thrives when historians step outside their comfort zones and make history accessible to diverse audiences. My experience in museums has taught me that there is a real public thirst to understand the past. 
After all, why do we pursue history? Do we write about the past for those who already understand its implications? Public historians have a responsibility to educate the public in creative and meaningful ways. 

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