Lauren Bruggemans

Lauren Bruggemans grew up in Palm Springs, where her family operated Le Vallauris, a French restaurant, for nearly 50 years. That early immersion in hospitality informed a career that has taken her from Jackson Hole to Indonesia, where she helped build a hospitality school and eco-resort for underprivileged youth — work recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization for Innovation in Tourism.

These days, Bruggemans leads sustainability and community engagement at Visit Greater Palm Springs, advancing initiatives in inclusion, accessibility, and workforce development. She facilitated a high school summer leadership program and other efforts that show students they can become the next leaders of the valley’s tourism industry.  She also serves on several boards, including the CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation and Desert Best Friend’s Closet, expanding her impact beyond tourism.

“I want to be known for being a mentor,” she says. “For giving my time to others, to help them rise, to help them become successful. Success is ensuring that all of our community is taken care of — that we are working together for a common good.”