Lawrence R. Thompson, With over two decades of experience working for some of the world’s most renowned leaders in service and quality control, Lawrence R. Thompson has cultivated a deep understanding of leadership, operations, and program development. His journey includes impactful roles with organizations such as The Walt Disney Company, Levy in partnership with Wrigley Field and the Chicago White Sox, Universal, City Cruises, Waterton, and more. Lawrence has also contributed to the successful launches of iconic ventures, including Eataly Chicago and Disney Quest Chicago, where he played key roles in opening teams, creative strategy, policy development, and operational design.

Lawrence’s unique blend of creativity and operational expertise stems from a solid foundation in Musical Theater from the University of Central Florida, where he began his career as a performer. At just 18 years old, he was hired by Disney as a singer and performer, setting the stage for a career that combines artistry with strategic leadership. His work on Green Screen Adventures earned him an Emmy nomination in 2008, and the show went on to win multiple Emmy Awards.

Currently, as the Area Manager for a nationwide afterschool program, Lawrence oversees the daily operations of five schools across Chicago. His responsibilities include staff training, program development, and fostering parent and community engagement. Under his leadership, these programs consistently meet and exceed organizational standards, delivering meaningful and enriching experiences to the community.

Lawrence’s prior roles as a manager for curriculum-based afterschool programs across Chicago Public Schools further demonstrate his commitment to education and youth development. His ability to build strong community partnerships and prioritize safety reflects his dedication to creating spaces where students can thrive.

In the hospitality and entertainment industries, Lawrence has held senior leadership positions, including General Manager at ClimbZone Chicago and Assistant General Manager of Front House at Eataly Chicago. His expertise spans policy and procedure development, point-of-sale system design, uniform design, and day-to-day operations. Lawrence also served as a writer, actor, and singer for Weigel Broadcasting, showcasing his exceptional communication skills and creative talents.

Beyond his professional roles, Lawrence is deeply committed to community service. As a member of the Young Professional Board for a city-wide afterschool program, he actively supports initiatives that empower youth and foster growth.

Lawrence’s career has been shaped by mentorship from some of the brightest minds in the world’s top companies, allowing him to deliver innovative solutions and inspire teams to achieve excellence.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “I never lose. I either win or learn,” and “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”