Lauren Hourtovenko joined our team as Publicity Assistant this past May. She recently graduated from Cambrian College's Media Communications program, where she maintained a 4.0 GPA. Lauren specialized in marketing, writing, and content creation during her studies.

In keeping with our 2022 theme, Stronger, we asked Lauren a few questions to get to know her better.

What is your “GO-TO” quote, scripture, and/or song(s) to help you strengthen yourself?

Go-To Quote: "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light." — Albus Dumbledore

Go-To Scripture: The go-to scripture that I read daily to help strengthen myself is Matthew 6:34, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” This verse has helped me to remind myself that I can't live in the past or the future. The only moment I can truly worry about is this current one. And I have faith that I can handle whatever is thrown my way, whether big or small.

Go-To Song: My music taste is honestly quite all over the place, but my favourite band always has been and always will be Queen. So I would have to say my go-to song is “I Want to Break Free” by Queen. 

How have you strengthened Graf-Martin since you joined the team?

I was hired at Graf-Martin in May, but I do believe that I have helped the team in the short time I have been here. Being the publicity assistant, I know my time at Graf-Martin has strengthened our Public Relations department the most. Assisting our Digital Engagement & PR Manager, Shannon Mischuk, with smaller tasks like shipping books, has allowed her to focus on larger tasks such as pitching and creating strong relationships with new and current clients and media. I hope I will continue to strengthen the team as my time spent with Graf-Martin continues.

How has being part of the Graf-Martin team strengthened you? 

As I mentioned previously, I have only been at Graf-Martin for a little while but I have grown since the start of my time here. Being a part of an agency that strengthens organizations committed to doing great things feels incredibly rewarding. I can do what I love while also helping others, which is a win-win. The team here is also fantastic. Everyone is very kind, supportive, and knowledgeable. I truly enjoy working with everyone and coming into the office every day. 

How have you been able to strengthen our clients? 

I am a recent graduate of Cambrian College’s Media Communications program, achieving a 4.0 GPA throughout the 2-year diploma. My recent education experience will allow me to help clients know what is currently happening in the world of social media, how to hop on the trends and ensure all written material is up to date with current standards. 

How is Graf-Martin building a stronger non-profit sector?

Graf-Martin is helping to build a stronger non-profit sector by ensuring the messages of those that are doing good stand out. Not only through efficient and effective marketing/PR material but also through positive relationships and connections. This is extremely critical not only in the non-profit sector but more importantly the Christian non-profit sector. Graf-Martin does it all with the highest professionalism and friendliness an agency can offer.  

Lauren has experience working with both the marketing and recruitment teams at her college before joining Graf-Martin, Lauren developed customer service skills and learned how to engage with prospective clients, all with rave reviews from her educators.

On a personal note, Lauren enjoys hitting the driving range with her boyfriend, going on too many walks, and binge-watching new television shows in her free time. She is looking forward to exploring the area to find the best-iced coffee after recently moving to Kitchener. Any suggestions?

Please help make Lauren feel welcome!!