Lauren Joyce Hensel brings over 15 years of experience in guiding non-profit organizations and diverse students through their education journeys. Previously an independent education consultant, she founded her own company, LAUNCH Education Advisors, in the Netherlands. With a background in athletics and coaching, Lauren believes in the potential of individuals and encourages them to reach their goals. Lauren holds a Bachelor's degree in Technical Communication, a Master's degree in Public Administration from Illinois Institute of Technology, and is pursuing a PhD in Education and Social Justice from Lancaster University in England.

Dr. Carla Beatrici received her Psy.D. at the Illinois School of Professional Psychology. She is a clinical psychologist with over 20 years clinical experience working with children, adolescents, parents and adults and also has experience directing an outpatient, non-profit counseling agency. Dr. Beatrici is an Assistant Professor at Loyola University Medical Center in the Department of Psychiatry, where she treats patients, supervises interns and teaches child development to psychiatry residents.

Ms. Kelly Perez holds a BA in applied behavioral science from National-Louis University and holds two American Montessori Society teaching credentials, Infant-Toddler (birth through age three) and Early Childhood (ages two-and-a-half through six). Kelly was nominated for the 2017 Golden Apple Stanley C. Golder Leadership Award. Her professional affiliations include the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Illinois Association for Infant Mental Health. Since 1987, Kelly has supported all aspects in building and delivering high quality early childhood programs. She has brought her experience as a teacher, teacher educator and consultant, classroom and curriculum developer, parent coach, program administrator and director to Smart Love since 2010.

Ms. Amber Guenther has a BA in Marketing and German from Western Michigan University. She worked in market research for nearly 10 years before deciding to leave work and stay at home to raise her daughter. She was introduced to the Smart Love philosophy and approach when her daughter attended the Smart Love Preschool. She is passionate about sharing the positive effects of Smart Love and the difference it makes in families' lives.

Mr. Carlos Escobar has a BS in Accounting from Robert Morris College, Roosevelt University. He has worked in the accounting and finance field for over 18 years. Since 2007 he has served as treasurer for a 100% volunteer non-profit “Children of Pure Heart”, which serves the poorest children with meals, early education and health services in the outskirts of Duran, Ecuador.

Mr. Mike Conway earned his BA in political science and history from Illinois State University. He has over 20 years of experience working with a variety of businesses in client service and experience as an assistant teacher in kindergarten.

Caroline Fields is a third year undergraduate student at Saint Louis University, majoring in communication and political science. She has a background in administrative support and social media management. She’s passionate about fostering and encouraging community through connection, and furthering her educational pursuits. She’s excited to contribute to Smart Love’s mission. 

Mr. Alejandro Garcia is currently a senior at the Illinois Institute of Technology, majoring in Computer Engineering. He has plans to further his education with a master's degree in Cyber Security. In addition to his academic pursuits, Alejandro is an accomplished pitcher on the college baseball team.