Lauren Bechard

Lauren Bechard is an experienced project manager and doctoral candidate specializing in aging, health, and well-being. Currently at the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Lauren leads strategic initiatives for a diverse team, developing innovative education products related to substance use care. Concurrently serving as a consultant for the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging, Lauren's research focuses on physical activity as a means to prevent and manage dementia. Previous roles include regional stroke coordinator for the North & East GTA Stroke Network, managing community engagement in stroke care, and various academic positions at the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto. Lauren holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Waterloo, alongside several qualifications in project management, rehabilitation science, and anti-racism studies.