Alumni Spotlight: Lauryn DeLuca PLY

Lauryn DeLuca PLY is a graduate of '22 with a Bachelor's in Child and Youth Studies and a minor in Disability Studies. Lauryn is currently in LA28's Olympian and Paralympian Fellowship, assisting with the planning for LA's third Olympic games and first Paralympic games. The fellowship provides meaningful career development opportunities and positive change in retired athletes’ lives. These athletes and para-athletes are in the rooms to make decisions and utilize their skills learned through athletics upon entering corporate life.

Lauryn is currently in her first 6 month rotation in the DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Department. With the DEIB department, Lauryn is assisting with efforts that will enable LA28 to leave a lasting human legacy. Using her lived and professional experiences, Lauryn is honored that she can facilitate education on not only the Paralympics but Disability Inclusion in general. In her spare time, Lauryn serves as an Athlete Representative on the USA Fencing Board and advocates for both able bodied athletes and para athletes.

As The Ohio State University will host the 2024 NCAA National Fencing Championships at the end of March, Lauryn will be part of the very first para-demo. "I feel very fortunate that in 2018 that the coaches at OSU made me the first Paralympic athlete in Division 1 collegiate fencing," she says. "My time at Ohio State was transformative in setting the foundation for all the work I get to be involved in now and in the future." Lauryn is extremely grateful for the coaches and teammates that have helped her be part of the Ohio State Fencing community and is thrilled for future generations of Buckeye Fencers. 

 When asked to share some advice, Lauryn was able to offer these nuggets of wisdom: "Understanding the power of YES is immense. Never underestimate the power of community. It is forever important to look back on your life to see who has helped you at every stage and ensure you give back to them through a variety of ways." 

Learn more about the fellowship here: https://la28.org/en/newsroom/LA28-Olympian-Paralympian-Fellowship-Provides-New-Opportunities.html