Lauren Kelly is a Lead Evaluator in the World Bank’s Independent Evaluation Group. With 27 years of experience across 90 countries, she uses evidence to shape policy, improve the use of development resources, and increase development effectiveness. Her work addresses complex, interconnected challenges across climate change, environment, agriculture, forests, gender, and social sustainability. She brings deep expertise in qualitative and mixed-methods and has advanced innovative approaches combining rigorous qualitative inquiry with geospatial analysis and generative AI. Lauren has lectured extensively, serves on CGIAR’s SIMEC committee, and is a multiple recipient of evaluation awards. Her publications include the New York Times article, “Can We Turn a Desert Into a Forest?” She holds a master’s degree in Economics, Conflict Management, and African Studies from Johns Hopkins SAIS; a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Rochester; a certificate from the Hertie School of Global Governance; and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She is known for building high-performing teams and creating opportunities for others to grow into leadership