Odney is excited to welcome back Lauren Wahlman, who rejoined the team as Director of Public Relations. Lauren brings a unique blend of agency and client-side experience that strengthens our ability to tell compelling stories and build meaningful relationships for our clients. 

"Lauren's journey has come full circle in the best way possible," says Gwen Butler, Odney president and partner. "Her time at NDDOT gave her invaluable perspective on what clients really need, and she's bringing that understanding back to the agency along with sharp PR instincts and a genuine passion for the work." 

A Bismarck native, Lauren graduated from North Dakota State University in 2013 with a degree in public relations and a minor in journalism. Lauren first joined Odney in 2018 as an account executive on the NDDOT Highway Safety contract before moving client-side to the NDDOT Highway Safety Division. There, she managed the communications contract with Odney, served as spokesperson for Vision Zero, and developed the Vision Zero Schools program—a peer-to-peer initiative that empowered students to become traffic safety advocates. 

Now back at Odney, Lauren leads public relations strategy, writes press releases and media materials, manages media relationships, and develops communications plans across a diverse client roster. Her experience on both sides of the table helps her anticipate client needs and deliver work that makes a difference. 

Outside the office, Lauren and her husband Bruce are busy keeping up with their two-year-old daughter Laken and their two dogs. She loves country concerts and summer weekends on Lake Sakakawea.