About Canis
Who is Lauren?
Lauren Joyce Hensel is an experienced education consultant committed to educational equity, social justice, and student empowerment. With over 17 years experience in postsecondary education, she is a professional member of the Independent Education Consultants Association (IECA) with an International Designation.​ Through personalized coaching, data-driven insights, and scaffolded process management, she helps students navigate admissions, student-athlete recruitment, and financial aid, securing scholarships and placements at top institutions.
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Lauren specializes in two key guidance areas - student-athletes and unique learners. A former All-American Athlete and collegiate coach/Athletic Director, she possesses a unique and insider perspective on student-athlete recruitment. Combined with her personalized approach, she assists student-athletes in finding the best fit academically, athletically, and financially.
Lauren also has a remarkable ability in helping students with unique learning needs find postsecondary opportunities that align with their strengths. She has worked with students with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, misophonia, communication disorders, giftedness, and twice exceptionality. Using compassion, flexibility, and research-driven strategies, she creates realistic pathways for student success.
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A champion for all students, Lauren helps them build on their capabilities to thrive in their communities and beyond. She is pursuing a PhD in Education and Social Justice at Lancaster University in England, focusing on bringing equity and justice to the college admissions process for students with high incidence disabilities.
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She lives in Chicago with her husband, two children, three rescue cats, and three rescue dogs. Canis Education Consulting is named after her love of dogs. Fun Fact: Canis lupus familiaris is the scientific name for domesticated dogs.
