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A Kentucky State University alumna followed in her father’s footsteps into the field of marketing and now works for Pandora Music in New York.

Lauren D. Williams, a 2006 graduate and director of vertical marketing at Pandora, said her father worked in marketing his entire career.

“I never thought I would end up following in his footsteps, but somehow I did and it has truly been a wonderful and adventurous experience,” Williams said. “I am able to use the skills obtained from (the) Whitney Young (program), theater classes and my master’s in journalism and apply them to my career. I love what I do and it’s even better now that I work in the music industry.”

Williams said she can’t imagine a more perfect opportunity for her.

“I quickly fell in love with my responsibilities leading my team in thought leadership, industry research and best practices, but little did I know, the best part about being at Pandora is the freedom to be me and grow into my true best self,” Williams said.

In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities, Williams said she serves as co-chair of Pandora Mixtape NYC, which is a community for employees of color and allies working towards supporting an inclusive workplace environment.

“Through this, I’ve been able to speak on multiple panels on the importance of diversity and inclusion, became a published author in Adweek by contributing a piece in celebration of Black History Month and am the sole nominee for the Management Leadership for Tomorrow Career Advancement program,” Williams said.

Williams said the program gives highly talented, mid-professionals the keys to unlock their full potential and advance toward senior leadership roles in their organizations.

“I don’t think any of this would be possible without the advocacy and empowerment I receive at Pandora,” Williams said.

Williams said some of her fondest memories at Kentucky State include singing in the concert choir, being an active member of the Student Government Association, completing studies within the Whitney Young Honors program and Homecoming.

Williams said if she could offer advice to current or future Thorobreds, it would include three parts.

First of all, be your most authentic self and your own advocate.

“No one knows you better than you,” Williams said. “Go on a path of discovery to determine what specific gift you have and use it to your advantage.”

Secondly, step outside of your comfort zone.

“You need to do more than just show up, put your head down and do the work,” Williams said. “Make time to focus on building relationships outside of the one you would not normally form.”

Finally, have fun.

“You are truly living through the best time of your lives,” Williams said. “Cherish this moment and live in the present.”

After graduating from Kentucky State, Williams earned a master’s in journalism at Indiana University. Afterwards, Williams joined the world of advertising in Chicago at Starcom MediaVest Group. After three-and-a-half years, Williams moved to New York. After five years in the advertising agency space, Williams said she made the transition to Pandora.

“My job is now a perfect blend of my passion for music and the skills I’ve obtained working in the ad agency space for eight-and-a-half years,” Williams said.