Every day, Lauren Swartz starts her day by making lists of her goals and priorities. “It helps me set a laser-focused intention at dawn and helps my mind rest while I sleep at dusk,” said Swartz. “Doing this allows me to be centered in my role as a leader, knowing I am spending time where it makes the most impact rather than responding to the squeakiest wheel.”
As the president and chief executive officer of World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, Swartz said she strives to be an authentic leader. “Authentic leaders who show up consistently earn and retain respect and legitimacy,” she said.
As the region’s largest and longest-running international experience provider, World Affairs Council of Philadelphia opens doors between Philadelphia and the world. From powerful speaking events and international exchanges to youth education, to professional development and curated travel programs, this is where continents, cultures and ideas connect.
Since Swartz was named a Titan 100 last year, the firm closed on a merger after 18+ months of negotiation, growing the organization by 30%. The merger allowed the organization to add three new programs, new members, new board members and supporters. At the same time, Swartz said the organization came out of the pandemic extremely strong, ready to celebrate its 75th anniversary.
“One of the region’s brightest international business and world affairs leaders, Lauren has helped make critical global topics accessible to people of all ages, political beliefs and backgrounds through authentic, meaningful experiences,” said her staff. “Lauren believes it is critical to understand how international affairs affects our region to maintain and grow international status and global recognition.”
The organization is committed to growing access, quality and the impact of its youth education programs across the region, said Swartz. Last year, the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia added eight new Philadelphia public high schools to its education suite of programs, opening doors for more than 3,000 young people to know the world.
“Fifty percent of our students are from low-to-moderate income households and 50% identify as BIPOC,” said Swartz. “They come together to learn about the world, their roles in it, civics, and how to break down cultural barriers, creating our future leaders.”
Being named a Titan 100 for the second time has validated her leadership within the business and civic community, said Swartz. “I must be moving in the right direction to be named a fellow titan with this impressive group, and the ability to call upon fellow titans for advice is the greatest value.”
