About Us
Our Story
Above Standard Consulting has proudly served businesses throughout the Chicagoland area, establishing a reputation for excellence and reliability. With a dedicated team boasting over 20 years of diverse experience in marketing, human resources, information technology, and business strategies, we have become a trusted partner for business owners seeking to build and expand their operations.
From our inception, our mission has been clear: to assist businesses in navigating the complexities of their industries and empower them to achieve sustainable growth. We understand that each business is unique, and we work diligently to provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. Our commitment to integrity and excellence drives us to do right by those who place their trust in us.
At Above Standard Consulting, we pride ourselves on being available for our clients in their time of need. Whether it’s developing effective marketing strategies, optimizing operational processes, or providing strategic guidance, we are here to support you every step of the way. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to fostering lasting partnerships and helping businesses thrive in an ever-changing marketplace.
Join us on this journey, and let Above Standard Consulting be your partner in success.
Our Team
Lawrence Thompson-Drake
Lawrence R. Thompson is an accomplished consultant with a diverse background in leadership, program management, and the arts. With a foundation in Musical Theater from the University of Central Florida, Lawrence combines creativity with strategic management skills to deliver exceptional results. The Walt Disney company hired him at 18 as a singer and performer. In 2008, he received his first Emmy nomination for his work on Green Screen Adventures. The show went on to win multiple Emmy Awards.
Currently, as the Area Manager for a nationwide afterschool program. Lawrence oversees daily operations for 5 schools across the city of Chicago, including staff training, program development, parent and community engagement. His leadership ensures that programs align with organizational standards and effectively serve the community.
Previously, Lawrence was a Manager at a few other afterschool programs, where he managed curriculum-based programs across multiple Chicago Public Schools, engaging students through educational and enriching activities. His ability to build strong community partnerships and maintain safety standards highlights his commitment to excellence.
Lawrence’s experience extends to the hospitality and entertainment industries, where he has held roles such as General Manager for Climb Zone, Assistant General Manager of Front House at Eataly Chicago and HR Supervisor at Levy Restaurants. His work at Weigel Broadcasting as a writer, actor, and singer for a children’s TV show underscores his creative talents and communication skills.
In addition to his professional roles, Lawrence is actively involved in community service as a member of the Young Professional Board at a city-wide afterschool program, where he continues to support youth initiatives.
LaKimbra Thompson-Drake
Lakimbra Thompson-Drake is a seasoned and public relations consultant communications over a decade of experience in leadership, education, business and program management. She is adept at crafting and implementing strategic communication plans that foster community relationships and enhance organizational visibility.
LaKimbra has served as a Director at a few non-profit organizations for several years. Lakimbra leads public relations initiatives, serving as a spokesperson and developing strategies to engage students, parents, and community partners. Her role involves overseeing media relations, staff relations and enhancing the visibility of the site through strategic outreach. She has intensive experience in training staff in a plethora of areas.
Her previous role as Senior Manager of Junior High programming involved directing communication strategies to engage students and families, collaborating with educational partners to create promotional materials, and facilitating community outreach to support educational initiatives.
Her early career as a Visiting Management Data Analyst & Web Developer at a couple of Chicago’s universities and medical centers involved designing communication materials for hospital orientation programs and training employees in effective communication practices as well as the universities course management systems.
Lakimbra holds a B.S. in Computer Science from Northern Illinois University, with an emphasis on Applied Data Processing and a minor in Business Administration. She is proficient in digital media and communication platforms adding valuable skills to her consultancy practice.
Lakimbra’s strategic communication expertise and her ability to manage diverse teams make her an invaluable partner for organizations seeking to enhance their public relations and community engagement efforts.