Laurel Zarbaugh

After moving to California from a small town in Ohio in 2024, Laurel was struck by how connected San Mateo County is. Seeing local government, businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders work together to support one another showed her the impact of collaboration and inspired her to pursue work that strengthens those connections.

Laurel earned her B.A. in English from Ohio University, where she served on Student Senate and interned at a local law practice. Before joining Leadership Council San Mateo County as Leadership Program Manager, she worked at both a startup and a nonprofit, where she discovered a passion for mission-driven work and building meaningful connections.

In her current role, Laurel is excited to help create leadership experiences that bring people together, strengthen relationships, and support leaders who are making a difference throughout San Mateo County.

Outside of work, Laurel enjoys spending time with family and friends, being outdoors, or being at home with her two cats.

Have a Question? 

Connect with Laurel at laurel.zarbaugh@leadershipcouncilsmc.org for questions about our Leadership Immersion Programs, including program logistics, applications, and participant support.