Lauren Theuerkauf | SpeakerHub

Personal Details

Bio

I began writing at an early age. While in elementary school, I was the recipient of two Young Author Awards (1994, 1997). In high school, I became the only freshman member of the yearbook staff where I took my own photographs and wrote stories about the happenings at Freeburg High.

I went on to receive my Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications – Journalism from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. While there, I earned the Outstanding Student in Journalism Award in 2006. I am the former Editor of The Fairview Heights Tribune as well as the Clinton County News in Mascoutah, Illinois.

I have written numerous articles and feature stories that have been included in the above-mentioned papers as well as The Freeburg Tribune and the Mass Communicator magazine for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

In 2015, I created my own publishing company called Theuerkauf’s Tails, LLC. I am also an active member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), 12x12 Picture Book Challenge, Independent Book Publisher’s Association (IBPA), the Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA), and the Women’s National Book Association (WNBA). I also contribute to and edit articles for the Pets for Patriots Wet Nose blog as well as DOGTV’s Everything Dogs Blog. Additionally, I am a member of the Animal Rescue Professionals Association and am a Certified Rescue Animal Transporter.

I currently volunteer at the APA of Missouri with my three-legged dog, Penny. I assist in teaching the humane education class to birthday parties as well as Boy and Girl Scout groups. I greatly enjoy educating youth about the importance of humane treatment of all animals. I also love to interact with the groups to make the learning experience fun and memorable.

In 2016, I published a children’s book about Penny and her adoption journey entitled Priceless Penny. Penny and I visit area schools where we give presentations on the importance of adopting differently-abled animals. I also speak at community events as well as at local club and organizational meetings.

Additionally, I have attended numerous writing conferences and events that include: Picture Book Summit, WriteOnCon, BlogPaws Conference, and the SCBWI-Illinois Chapter Spring Thaw Pitch Perfect 2 event.

Current position (2)

Owner

Theuerkauf's Tails, LLC

Owner

Theuerkauf's Tails Pet Services

Achievements (8)

Member of Phi Theta Kappa at Southwestern Illinois College

I was a member of Phi Theta Kappa at Southwestern Illinois College from 2004-2005.

Member of The National Scholars Honor Society 2005

I was inducted into the National Scholars Honor Society in 2005.

Dean’s List at SIUE

I was on the Dean's List at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville from 2005-2007.

Dean’s List at Southwestern Illinois College

I was on the Dean's List at Southwestern Illinois College from 2003-2005.

Member of Phi Kappa Phi at SIUE

I was a member of Phi Kappa Phi at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

National Dean’s List 2006

I was on the National Dean's List in 2006.

National Dean’s List 2007

I was on the National Dean's List 2007

Graduated Suma Cum Laude in 2007

I graduated Suma Cum Laude from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2007.

Degrees (2)

Journalism

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

2005 to 2007

General Studies

Southwestern Illinois College

2003 to 2005

Presentations

Presentations (7)

Self Publishing Workshop

This workshop takes an in-depth look at self-publishing. Attendees will learn the step-by-step process that I followed when creating my award winning children's picture book , Priceless Penny. We will also discuss the role that social media plays in the success of a book both pre-published and after the launch date.

Positive Promotions: How to Promote Your Self-Published Book

This workshop takes an in-depth look at the numerous promotion options that are available to self-published authors. We will discuss such key points as product awareness, creating a marketing plan, and crafting the perfect press release.

Illustrious Illustrators

This workshop takes an in-depth look at the illustrator selection process for self-publishing authors. Attendees will learn the step-by-step process that I used when selecting an illustrator for my award winning children's picture book , Priceless Penny. We will discuss important aspects of the selection process including: knowing your audience, designing procedures and processes, and more.

Delightfully Different

This presentation focuses on the importance of adopting differently-abled animals. The misconception about these amazing creatures is that they are "broken" or "unlovable." In truth, these incredible pets have learned to adapt in miraculous ways. Featuring photos and videos, this presentation is not to be missed by animal lovers of all ages.

Tender Tails

This presentation is geared towards children ages 3 through 11. Children will learn how to properly approach a dog, how to correctly handle a cat, and more. We will discuss tips and tricks for making every encounter with an animal enjoyable. This interactive presentation will include a guest appearance by my certified therapy dog, Adriel.

How a Picture Book is Made

This presentation is geared towards students in grades 2-8. Children will learn the step-by-step process of how a children's picture book is made. Including real story board images and sketches from my award winning children's book, Priceless Penny, children will watch as a picture book is created in front of their eyes.

Wonderful Writers Workshop

Everyone has a story inside. In this workshop, geared for students in grades 5-12, we will discuss how to turn an idea into a story. From brainstorming techniques to character and plot development, this is the ultimate workshop for students that love to write.