Lydia Degarmo Hampton

About Lydia Degarmo Hampton

I believe learning happens everywhere - not just in classrooms, not just during school hours, and not just in one “right” way.I’m the Founder & Executive Director of Learning Lab Wichita, a K–12 education launchpad and co-learning hub designed to support families, educators, and innovators who are building new learning pathways. We don’t prescribe what learning should look like - we create the conditions for ideas, people, and communities to experiment, grow, and thrive.My work sits at the intersection of education, community, and curiosity. I’ve been a classroom teacher, a coach, and a lifelong learner - and each chapter has shaped how I think about what kids (and adults) really need to flourish: belonging, agency, and the freedom to learn in ways that align with who they are.At Learning Lab Wichita, we support the people guiding learning - parents, educators, coaches, instructors, and entrepreneurs - by offering shared infrastructure, a diverse learning community, and space to test and refine ideas. I spend my days listening, asking questions, building partnerships, and helping others bring thoughtful learning experiences to life.I’m especially energized by work that:• centers curiosity and compassion• strengthens communities• challenges traditional assumptions about education• makes room for many ways of learning and beingOutside of work, I’m a parent, a runner (sometimes), a reader, and someone who deeply values reflection, generosity, and lifelong learning.If you’re curious about reimagining education, building community-powered learning ecosystems, or simply thinking differently about how people grow - I’d love to connect.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Learning Lab Wichita

   Dec 2025 — Present

Education

• Fort Hays State University

  Teaching Certification, Secondary Education and Teaching

  2014 — 2015

• University of Missouri-Kansas City

  Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.), Finance, General

  2009 — 2013

• Valley Center High School

  High school diploma, High School/Secondary Diplomas and Certificates

  2005 — 2009

• Western Governors University

  Bachelor's degree, Accounting

  2017 — 2018

• Wichita State University

  General Studies

  2008 — 2009