Lauren Willis joins Freese and Nichols, Deepens Central Texas Presence
Freese and Nichols deepens its role in supporting Central Texas communities and their transportation, water, wastewater and other infrastructure projects with the addition of Lauren Willis in our San Antonio office to support and grow client relationships in the region. As many municipal and utility organizations in Bexar County and beyond are experiencing unprecedented growth, Lauren will serve as a guide and facilitator for our clients facing critical planning, improvement projects and resource protection challenges.
Lauren brings an affinity for the environment that spans her career. She has also worked closely with local entities like the San Antonio River Authority and multiple area counties, including Kendall, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Caldwell, and others along the IH-130 corridor.
Most recently as Director of Government and Community Affairs for Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, she oversaw strategic planning, monitored legislative activities, and cultivated relationships with elected and appointed officials at federal, state and local levels. She also held roles streamlining customer service and permit renewal processes for wastewater treatment facilities, verified compliance with Texas pollutant discharge elimination system regulations, and administered environmental grant programs.
She also served in the U.S. Peace Corps as a Coastal Resource Management Volunteer in the Philippines, where she was heavily involved in education and outreach to local teachers, youth and fisherfolk, focusing on preserving local fisheries and coastal ecosystems.
“Lauren’s strategic understanding of delivering complex projects and key industry players in the Central Texas area make her a top resource for public infrastructure owners navigating significant increases in population. We look forward to our clients connecting with Lauren for support,” says Charley Mock, Principal at Freese and Nichols.
Recognizing the burden that these high-growth areas face, Lauren says, “I am passionate about helping communities overcome their infrastructure challenges as they develop and understand the importance of maintaining their uniqueness throughout the growth.”
Lauren currently serves as Chair of the Volunteer Subcommittee for the Texas Water Association and is a Bexar County Master Gardener through the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension, Bexar County. She has a Master of Science in Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communication and Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Leadership & Development, Texas A&M University, College Station.