Lauren Munroe, KLN ’16, had a love for music ingrained in her from an early age. But what started as a passion for singing and performance soon turned into a thriving career behind the scenes of the music business. Her journey through the music industry, where she's worked on projects with artists like Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar and Lotto, is a testament to how Temple’s foundation, global network and the drive to create can shape a career like no other.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Munroe always knew she wanted to work in music. A graduate of the Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA), she began her college journey at Temple University as a jazz vocal performance major. She soon realized that while she loved music, she didn’t necessarily see the stage as her focus. She transferred to the Klein College of Media and Communication, where she gained the skills to navigate the broader music business.

During her junior year, Munroe made one of the most important decisions of her college career: She applied for the London study abroad program and was accepted for the spring semester. This experience opened her eyes to how music could be created anywhere in the world. Inspired by the possibilities, she returned to finish her senior year in Los Angeles, where she had the chance to intern with an executive music producer, work on a Grammy party and meet industry legends like Janelle Monáe and Jidenna. “Even though I wasn’t close to the Grammy stage yet, I was in the room, meeting producers, artists and the people who made it happen,” said Munroe. “It was almost a dream come true."

In 2018, she took a leap of faith and bought a one-way ticket back to Los Angeles to chase her dreams. Eventually, a temp agency set her up with a role at William Morris Endeavor (WME), one of the biggest talent agencies in the world. She later transitioned into an assistant role for two agents, which proved crucial in shaping her understanding of the industry. After nearly two years in a temporary role, Munroe faced a tough four-month job search before her temp agency connected her with an opportunity at Sony ATV (now Sony Music Publishing). Though hesitant due to the low pay, she saw it as a steppingstone and grew quickly in the role. 

As a temp assisting the director and VP of A&R, she quickly took charge, using the skills learned from her previous agency role to thrive. A few weeks into the job, the full-time position became hers, and she found herself immersed in the world of music publishing—one that felt like her true calling. At Sony, Munroe worked closely with songwriters, producers and artists, contributing to chart-topping music. 

At Sony Music Publishing, Munroe thrived under the mentorship of a Black female executive, who took her under her wing and helped her learn the intricacies of music publishing. She credits this mentorship for shaping her career and helping her build invaluable relationships with industry contacts. 

As her career blossomed, she earned a promotion to A&R manager, where she was able to make her mark, including signing her first artist, rapper Latto, contributing to top-tier projects, including Kendrick Lamar’s #1 GNX album, working with artists like Beyoncé on her Grammy-winning Cowboy Carter, and even attending the Grammys, fulfilling a childhood dream. "It’s surreal. I thought all of these achievements would be something years down the line. But here I am, doing it, and it still blows my mind," exclaimed Munroe. 

Through all the ups and downs, Munroe credits Temple University as a constant source of support and connection in Los Angeles. “When you have a global network of Owls, it becomes your foundation. You're never alone, never without a job, never without an opportunity, when you tap into your Temple network. Stay connected and stay close,” asserted Munroe.  

Even after graduation, Munroe stays connected to Temple by serving on the LA alumni board and returning to speak at the LA Study Away program. She also tries to offer advice and opportunities to fellow alumni, like her longtime connection, Ben Thomas, a sound engineer and producer who worked on Lil Uzi’s music. Munroe had the chance to collaborate with him again, just like they did in college—and this time, she was able to sign him.  

Munroe’s sisters have also achieved remarkable success in the entertainment industry, further strengthening their family’s bond to Temple University. Her older sister, Latoya Stroman, KLN ’12, is a television and film producer and the founder of Girl Talk Global, a nonprofit empowering young Black girls. Her other sister, Nicole “Nikki Star” Roberts, is an actress known for her work in commercials and Netflix’s Nobody Wants This. These sisters share a deep commitment to supporting each other’s careers, and their success reflects the values they learned from their family and Temple’s influence. 

Looking back on her journey, Munroe reflected on how far she’s come. "I remember dreaming of attending the Grammys, and now, I’m working on projects that are nominated for Grammys. It’s crazy how full circle everything has come." 

Munroe's story is one of perseverance, passion and Temple pride. As an A&R manager at Sony Music Publishing, she’s not only shaping the future of music but also paving the way for other Temple alumni to follow in her footsteps. "Temple gave me the tools and support to chase my dreams," she said. "And now, I’m just paying it forward." With her relentless drive and her deep commitment to staying connected and giving back, Munroe exemplifies what it means to be Temple Made.