Our Mission
Lactation University exists to provide high-quality lactation education in an engaging, rigorous learning environment that equips students with evidence-based knowledge to support every families’ feeding decision. We are shaping the future of lactation education and consulting.
Lactation University is committed to building stronger communities through support groups, counseling programs, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Our mission is to guide, inspire, and equip future International Board Certified Lactation Consultants with the knowledge and confidence needed to make a lasting impact on families around the world.
Lactation University is committed to building stronger communities through support groups, counseling programs, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Our mission is to guide, inspire, and equip future International Board Certified Lactation Consultants with the knowledge and confidence needed to make a lasting impact on families around the world.
Our Vision
The goal of Lactation University is to support and develop the next generation of IBCLCs and Lactation Educators. We are preparing students to excel in a profession, not just pass a test.
Our Philosophy and Core Values
- Trained professionals ensure support and resources are available to everyone
- Professionals deserve quality education and continued mentorship at an affordable price
- Educators are responsible to share evidenced-based information and encourage informed decision making
- Education should be free from judgement and bias and should respect cultural beliefs
- Breastfeeding is the biological norm of infant feeding. Babies are born with instinctive reflexes, traits and abilities to nurse.
- Breastfeeding grants immediate postpartum benefits and long term risk reductions to the breastfeeding parent
- Providing human milk to newborns provides short and long-term protection from illnesses as well as passive immunity
- Breastfeeding is food security, good for the environment and an important public health issue
- Education is vital for breastfeeding success and prenatal classes result in more successful initiation rates
- “Parents do not fail, they are failed.” Most families desire to breastfeed but over 80% do not meet their feeding goals.
- Many issues and conditions can prevent parents from breastfeeding, including lack of education and support (some may have personal reasons to bottle or formula feed)
- It is paramount to recognize and respect the client’s autonomy
Faculty and Staff |
Responsive. Professional. Knowledgeable.
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Our Expert Team
Christy Jo Hendricks,
Founder, Chief Educator
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Janice Ferrer, Executive Assistant:
Lactation University Volunteer Program, Clinical Hours
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Emily Downing, Academic Coordinator:
CLP Course, Technical Support
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We are ready to support your efforts to become Certified Lactation Professionals, IBCLCs, Lactation University Volunteers and exceptional educators. Whether you need help navigating the online programs, completing forms or have general questions, our staff is available. Send us an email at [email protected]
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Volunteers |
Strong leaders make strong leaders
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Peer Guidance and Support from CLPs
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Strengthen your communication and teaching skills with our Foundations of Lactation Education (FLE) Course. This 3-day, 24-hour L-CERP approved training is for professionals who want to earn a lactation education certificate, update all of their lactation information, confidently teach and support families in private practice, clinics, hospitals, and community settings.
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Support families. Build your skills. Become a leader.
Dr. Angela Lober
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A Virtual Support GroupReal-time peer-facilitated lactation support for parents and caregivers navigating feeding. Experience the warmth of a small group and the steadiness of a qualified lactation professional in the room.
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IBLCE-Approved Breastfeeding Counselor ProgramLUVS Leaders play an important role in creating a supportive village for prenatal and postpartum families while gaining valuable experience and clinical hours toward becoming an IBCLC. If you are passionate about maternal-child health and ready to grow professionally while making a meaningful impact, we invite you to join us.
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Studying under Christy Jo is a game changer. She is truly a dynamic educator, and there is never a dull moment in her classes! Christy Jo has a unique way of making the material come alive, making certain that even the most complex topics are engaging and memorable. Becoming a LUVS Leader has allowed me to support my community while earning clinical hours. This program has opened the doors for me to become an IBCLC.
Madeline Pacheco
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Lactation University exceeded ALL my expectations! After researching all kinds of lactation programs, I couldn't be more grateful that this is where I landed. There has been so much thought and detail and care put into this program. The information is thorough and comprehensive, the teaching is incredibly engaging, and the live virtual sessions provide so much connection and clarity. |