Governor's Aide to Become Perkins' Chief of Staff

Dec. 17, 2008

LAWRENCE, Kan. — Nicole Corcoran, communications director and press secretary for Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, has accepted the position of Chief of Staff for University of Kansas Athletics Director Lew Perkins.

Corcoran has served with Sebelius since 1999, first as the public information director for the State of Kansas Insurance Commissioner from 1999-2002. When Sebelius was elected governor, Corcoran became communications director and press secretary of the Governor’s office.

In her role as chief of staff, Corcoran will serve as the main clearinghouse for all requests to Perkins. She will oversee management of his schedule, coordinate his public appearances and organize special events.

“I’m very excited to be able to attract someone of Nicole’s skills to coordinate my activities and the increased demands on my time,” Perkins said. “She will be a real asset to our team here at Kansas.”

A graduate of Washburn University, Corcoran received the 2005 Outstanding Alumnus award from Washburn’s Mass Media Department.

“This is an incredible opportunity for Nicole and a wonderful hire for my friend, Lew Perkins,” said Sebelius. “She will be very hard to replace in our office, but the chance to serve in this newly created position was too good an opportunity to turn down. And her boys will be thrilled with her new sports connection!”

Corcoran will join Kansas Athletics February 2, 2009.