Lauren Zaloga
Convention Services Manager
aka Connection & Collaboration Specialist
Lauren focuses on the needs of Michigan-based groups coming to Grand Rapids for meetings and conventions. She provides them with all the resources they need to make the most of their time in the city.
Lauren began her professional career as an event planner at Purdue University and later worked in the conferencing and event services department at GR’s Aquinas College, so she understands the numerous decisions and details that go into planning a meeting or convention. She joined Experience Grand Rapids in 2025 after she'd ascended to the position of Director of Conferencing and Event Services at Aquinas.
Bio Bits:
- Satisfies her sweet tooth with baked goods from Cakabakery, whose owner advanced to the finals of Food Network’s 2013 Cupcake Wars. “Their cookie dough cake is the best.”
- Loves the many beverage options, including non-alcoholic drinks, served at EK Wealthy, a cozy Uptown cocktail bar from Eastern Kille Distillery.
- Attends a lot of concerts at downtown GR’s The Pyramid Scheme and The Intersection, which both present a wide range of music genres and acts each week.
Lauren Zaloga, Convention Services Manager
Photo by Bryan Esler for Experience GR
“I'm very social and I love that my role allows me to meet and connect with so many different people.” says Lauren. “My favorite part of the job is building relationships!”
