With decades of experience in media and communications, Laura Van Eperen is passionate about many issues, including economic development, female leadership, and health research disparities.

In this C-Suite Insights, we discuss Laura’s journey in leading a woman-owned business, as well as her favorite attributes about Maryland.

Please tell us a little bit about yourself and your company.
I am the founder of FOVNDRY , an integrated communications agency headquartered in Maryland for 20 years. The PR, creative/branding, and marketing firm supports national associations, government agencies, and corporations. Overseeing FOVNDRY's PR practice, I work with clients on strategic stakeholder engagement and issue management.

Prior to launching FOVNDRY, I served as a senior PR manager at communications firms in greater Washington, D.C. and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Before transitioning into strategic communications, I was a broadcast news journalist in Florida and Colorado.

I am also the current Chair of the Maryland Marketing Partnership  and have served on the board since its founding in 2018.

Where in Maryland do you live?
Montgomery County/Potomac

Where in Maryland is your office located?
FOVNDRY’s HQ is located in Rockville and we have a Baltimore City satellite office.

What is your favorite activity to do/place to visit in Maryland with your family/friends?
As long as I’m near water, or moving business forward, I’m happy. This attached pic was taken during an Elavaire  business networking cruise around the Bay…two of my favorite activities occuring in one place.

Are there any Maryland financial incentives or certifications that your business utilizes?
FOVNDRY is a certified woman-owned MBE/DBE in Maryland and we have added great value to state agencies and large contractors by delivering high quality marketing services. Our firm’s leadership is very proud to have the opportunity to see our good work in action in our home state!

Gen Z has entered the workforce. How do you think this next generation will influence your company/industry?
Gen Z takes a more balanced approach to work-life and we are seeing it take hold in our culture. Our team is healthier and happier as a result of their greater involvement.

What business goals would you like to see the state of Maryland accomplish over the next decade?
I would like to see our lawmakers continue to work toward lowering taxes in our state. We’ve got to improve the tax burden on individuals and businesses to remain competitive in the years ahead.

What do you wish you knew in your first year of business that you know now?
Female leaders in corporate America are allowed to be vulnerable at work.

What makes Maryland a great state to live and work in?
Maryland is known as “America in Miniature” because we have the best our country has to offer within our state borders. Mountains, lakes, beaches, farms, etc. Plus, our state is diverse professionally, and offers unlimited potential to succeed. Maryland is truly a great place to live, work and play!

What's your favorite Maryland dish to make or eat?
Crab cakes of course!

Maryland’s 12,400 square-miles are full of diverse professionals who span a variety of industries, sectors, and backgrounds. With our C-Suite Insights series, we’re shining the spotlight on some of our state’s leading executives in Q&A format and giving them a chance to share their thoughts on business and life in Maryland.