Mother, Scientist, Educator, 

Animal Lover & Children’s Advocate

Living in rural Ohio is incredibly special. I continue to be struck by the beauty and abundance of the farmland surrounding me, as well as the charm and vibrancy of the small towns nestled within. How fortunate we are to live in community with neighbors who come together to support one another time and time again. In times of celebration and uplifting, as well as in times of tragedy and need, there is a strength of camaraderie here—a sense that we’re in it together. And that is what drives me to serve as your next State Senator. 

My career as an entomologist (bug scientist), researcher and educator is rooted in thinking both critically and creatively to solve problems. I have learned that transparency and maintaining a shared pool of information is foundational to the crucial conversations needed for finding pathways forward—collaboration is the most direct way to solving the challenges we face. My experience has prepared me to represent everyone in our district with integrity and fairness.

  • Live in Wooster with my husband, two sons & two dogs

  • Wayne County Children’s Services Board Member & mentor

  • Wayne County Children Services Placement Crisis Workforce subcommittee

  • Drug-Endangered Children Working Group of Wayne & Holmes County

  • Professor & Associate Chair of Biology at College of Wooster

  • Volunteer at Wayne County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center

  • Precinct Election Official with Wayne County Board of Elections

  • League of Women Voters member

Laura recently chatted with Seth Scrimo on his podcast, Best of Wooster, about being an introvert on the campaign trail, how she plans to maintain authenticity and integrity in office and how she’d spend her ideal Saturday in Wooster.

Laura had the pleasure of talking with Sara Petrie and Ashley Kindsvatter on their podcast, United SHE Stands. We chatted about my experience as a foster parent inspiring me to run for office and how connecting with former State Representative John Patterson, co-author of the Fair School Funding Plan, led me to the State Senate position in our district.