Maya Lawrence (she/her) is an advocate of arts education, social justice, and romance novels. She is a graduate of Hollins University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and a minor in social justice. Her background is primarily rooted in administrative and arts education work. An avid reader, she would much rather be reading a fabulous book above all else (except eating ice cream). Her passion for reading and arts education will contribute to her journey with the talented PEN/Faulkner team. 

As a Black woman, Maya is dedicated to being a part of a team that works to provide access and resources to marginalized communities. She benefited greatly from her own experience of receiving an arts education through one of the only performing arts charter schools in Western Massachusetts. She realized her luck by being accepted through a lottery and that opportunities are not as plentiful for others. This is why she is thrilled to be a part of the PEN/Faulkner team.