From her roots in South Carolina to her groundbreaking role as the first female Chief of Staff to the Governor of Georgia, Lauren Curry’s career is a testament to her passion for public service.

Curry’s academic journey began at Wofford College, where she pursued an undergraduate degree in Government and Business Economics. It was there that her passion for political science flourished, laying the foundation for her career in public service.

Motivated to make a meaningful impact on society, Curry applied for the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program at the University of Georgia. The MPA’s reputation for excellence and its focus on equipping students with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of governance resonated deeply with her, ultimately guiding her decision to pursue this path.

Following the completion of her degree in 1999, Curry joined the US Department of Transportation’s Boston Office as a Presidential Management Fellow. This role not only provided invaluable experience in the federal government but also served as a springboard for her subsequent endeavors.

In 2003, Lauren and her husband returned to Georgia, a state they grew to love through their educational journeys. She joined the administration of Governor Sonny Perdue as a press assistant, launching her career in state government. Over the last two decades, Curry has assumed leadership roles in several Georgia agencies, from the Department of Economic Development to the Department of Natural Resources to Emergency Management and Homeland Security, ultimately landing in the Office of the Governor under Brian Kemp.

In 2024, Curry was named as the Chief of Staff to the Governor making her the first female in Georgia’s history to carry that title. In her role, Curry’s duties include a myriad of tasks ranging from overseeing state agencies to navigating legislative sessions to ensuring the efficient operation of her team. As the first woman to hold this esteemed role, Curry’s tenure is not only a testament to her work ethic but also a source of inspiration for aspiring leaders, particularly women, in the public sector.

Lauren poses for a portrait with Governor Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.

Reflecting on her academic and professional journey, Curry credits the MPA program with providing her the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel as a public administrator. From management and organizational behavior to budgeting and policy implementation, the program equipped her with a complete toolkit to navigate public sector work.

“I couldn’t be a bigger proponent of the program. In every way possible, it was exactly the right move for me,” said Curry, smiling. “I did it because I was interested in it, and I had a passion for it. I took that interest and passion from one job into the next. If you have an interest and a commitment to public service, the opportunities are endless.”

Curry’s journey epitomizes the fusion of academic excellence, professional dedication, and a steadfast commitment to public service. As she continues to chart new horizons in the public sector, Curry continues her legacy of consequential work on behalf of all Georgians.