Halgerson to Lead Expansion as Susquehanna Growth Equity Invests $38 Million in Early Education Franchise
As the new chief operating officer of Tierra Encantada, Lauren Halgerson will direct expansion of the Spanish-immersion early education franchise. Tierra Encantada also has named a new chief financial officer, Jeremy Alinder. Both appointments coincide with a $38 million investment from Susquehanna Growth Equity.
Halgerson likes Tierra Encantada’s approach to teaching and sees great potential for the brand. “I’m passionate about being part of a company in growth mode, and Tierra Encantada is primed for significant expansion, making it an exciting time to contribute,” she said. “During the interview process, I felt a strong alignment with the company’s values.”
CEO and founder Kristen Denzer praised Halgerson’s capabilities and background; the new COO holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising from North Dakota State University as well as a master’s degree in marketing from Southwest Minnesota State University. “Lauren’s profound expertise, drive and enthusiasm will be an asset for Tierra as we enter this next stage of growth,” Denzer said, “and I’m thrilled to welcome such a high-caliber leader to our team.”
Halgerson’s primary focus will be refining and scaling Tierra Encantada’s defining characteristics, including the curriculum and the organic food it serves. “The work we do is filled with joy, curiosity and hope for the future, making every day fulfilling. Knowing that we’re helping shape young minds and building a foundation for their success is both humbling and incredibly motivating.”
Fulfillment Through Franchising
Her franchise experience began at Regis, a large beauty salon franchisor. Later she nurtured the growth of the FACE FOUNDRIÉ facial bar franchise. At FACE FOUNDRIÉ, she oversaw corporate and franchise operations and the brand’s growth from 11 locations to 46.
Halgerson finds it rewarding to support hardworking entrepreneurs and said it’s fulfilling when the collaborative efforts of the franchisee, their employees and corporate support pay off. “It’s not just about financial success, but also personal growth and team development,” she adds. One key to franchisees’ success, Halgerson said, is to hire the right people and invest in their training and development. “When you build a team you can trust and they feel genuinely connected to the success of the business, that’s when operations become both consistent and personalized. Fostering a culture of ownership and responsibility among staff ensures long-term operational efficiency and creates a better customer experience.”
About Tierra Encantada
Founded in 2013 in Eagan, Minn., Tierra Encantada is an award-winning franchise. The franchise has a proprietary STEAM (science, technology, engineering arts and math) curriculum and provides from-scratch meals prepared using organic ingredients.
