Lauren MacKeigan is an award-winning researcher and career coach whose work sits at the intersection of sports, equity, and career development. Her research on collegiate Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)—featured in Sports Business Journal and other outlets—examines the pay gap and expectation disparities faced by women and athletes of color in the NIL market. Notably, her findings reveal that when presented with identical NIL deal terms, women expect roughly half the compensation of men.

Drawing on both her research and professional experience, Lauren works closely with student-athletes to help them navigate NIL opportunities, build career confidence, and position themselves for long-term success beyond sport.

Lauren is based in New York City and was raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is a graduate of East Kentwood High School and the University of Michigan.