Dr. Lauren McNamara

Dr. Lauren McNamara is an educational psychologist, Ashoka Fellow, and advisor who helps schools and systems rethink and redesign the environments that shape student mental health, belonging, and engagement.

A central focus of her work examines schoolyards and recess—reframing them as powerful, yet often overlooked, infrastructure for student mental health, well-being, and school success. As the founder of Schoolyards for Thought and Recess Project Canada, and a research scientist at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute, her work is grounded in a substantial body of research across education, public health, and child development. She supports leaders in assessing and redesigning the social and physical environments where students spend time every day—expanding opportunities for play and recreation, strengthening peer relationships, and supporting more inclusive participation.

Her research and writing have appeared in academic journals, professional publications, policy statements, and national conversations related to child development, education, inclusion, health, and well-being.

She holds a PhD in Educational Psychology from Simon Fraser University and an MS in Learning Sciences from Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy. 

With more than 25 years of experience in higher education, research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, her passion lies in translating complex ideas into meaningful and actionable insights. She enjoys collaborating with local, national, and international organizations across education, health, research, recreation, museums, accessibility, and community sectors on initiatives related to social connection, belonging, mental health, and creating environments that help children thrive.