Her Story
About Kori
Kori Lee is a communications and public relations professional with 18 years of experience spanning marketing, strategic communications, public relations, sports marketing, media, and community engagement. She currently serves as Director of Communications with the City of Houston Mayor’s Office, where her work includes executive-level communication, social media marketing, community outreach, and public communications. Her career also includes experience with Houston Public Media, alliantgroup, Glo PR, and professional sports organizations, including the Houston Texans and NBA-related sports marketing.
Lee earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Psychology from the University of New Orleans. Throughout her career, she has developed expertise in public relations, strategic communications, marketing, sports marketing, content development, media relations, and community engagement. Her professional contributions have been recognized with a National Public Media Award and a Media Alliance Houston Star Award. She also has a strong interest in fashion and wellness and has developed her own brand, KoChicStyles.
Beyond her professional work, Lee is deeply committed to community service, mentorship, and women's health advocacy. She serves as an Advisory Board Member for SurviveHER Breast Cancer Awareness Nonprofit and has participated in breast cancer awareness and community education initiatives. She is also an ambassador for Ladies Who Golf and is involved with Public Media Women in Leadership, Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals, and her church's Fountain Connection media group. Her professional philosophy centers on authenticity, continuous learning, listening, kindness, and giving others grace, while encouraging the next generation of women to pursue their goals boldly and embrace opportunities for growth and change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kori
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to speaking up for myself while remaining humble enough to learn from others. I believe in asking questions, listening to leaders, and being willing to learn from the people around me. Staying open to feedback and continuously learning have helped me grow throughout my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to ask questions. From my earliest days as an intern, I learned that asking questions creates opportunities to learn, understand more deeply, and grow professionally. I continue to carry that approach with me throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is simple: go for it. Whether you are pursuing a dream, considering a career pivot, applying for a new position, or facing something unfamiliar, do not let fear hold you back. Take the opportunity, even when you feel uncertain, and be willing to pursue something different.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are listening to others, giving grace, and being kind. You never know what someone else may be experiencing or going through, so I believe it is important to approach people with understanding, compassion, and respect.
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