ABOUT Lauren Sullivan
Lauren Sullivan (Taylor) spent over a decade on the CTE stage, performing in an impressive 20 productions. Her favorite show? Beauty and the Beast with the Hawaii cast in 2004, a magical experience that still holds a special place in her heart. From 2000 to 2011, Lauren performed in an incredible 20 productions, embracing the stage with heart, humor, and a deep love for storytelling.
One of Lauren’s fondest memories involves learning to swing dance with fellow performer Jake Akemann. “I’ll never forget flipping upside down like I’d done it a hundred times,” she recalls.
Now a reference librarian at Elgin Community College, Lauren’s connection to CTE came full circle when she was hired. “There was some confusion, because I already had an account, from enrolling in summer shows years ago! They still had my parents’ old landline listed as my contact number.” A reminder that the impact of CTE, quite literally, stays with you.
Lauren earned a BFA in Theatre thanks in part to the passion CTE instilled in her for the performing arts. Two decades later, she still remembers dance numbers and song lyrics from those early shows. “These performances are imprinted in my heart,” she says. But even more than the spotlight, it’s the friendships that have stayed with her. “I made so many amazing friends, and those friendships have lasted 25 years, and will keep going.”
