Corey Ellis
Albany,NY
Summary
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Upstate Political Director
New York State Nurse Association
05.2018 - 12.2025
- Corey serves as the Upstate Political Director for the New York State Nurse Association, helping pass safe staffing legislation for the first time in New York.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to cultivate relationships that enhance political influence and outreach efforts.
- Coordinated grassroots campaigns to mobilize nurses in support of key policy initiatives.
- Developed and implemented strategic advocacy plans to advance legislative priorities for nursing professionals.
- Led coalition-building efforts among healthcare organizations to strengthen advocacy impact.
- Facilitated regular team meetings, promoting transparency and open dialogue among staff members.
Chair
Albany Black Chamber of Commerce
01.2023 - 12.2025
- Corey serves on the board of directors of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce and is a founding member. He also is Chair of the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce Foundation.
- Planned and oversaw meetings in accordance with governing documents.
- Supported strategic planning efforts to align with long-term organizational goals.
President
Albany Common Council
01.2018 - Current
- Corey was first elected in 2018 as Albany Common Council President. Before being elected as President, Corey served as a member of the Albany Common Council in 2006-2009 representing the Arbor Hill, Sheridan Hollow, and Ten Broeck triangle neighborhoods, and parts of West Hill. As President of the Common Council, Corey co-authored the city's equity agenda legislation. Corey also worked with his fellow council members to introduce police reform legislation, in which he co-authored legislation creating an Independent Citizens Police Review Board. The citizens of Albany voted overwhelmingly supporting the creation of an Independent Police Review Board and electing Corey to a second term.
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance community engagement and transparency in local government operations.
- Directed policy development to improve city governance and legislative processes for better service delivery.
- Coordinated public meetings and forums to facilitate open dialogue between citizens and council members.
- Hired and managed employees to maximize productivity while training staff on best practices and protocols.
Chair of the Board of Directors
New York State Labor Religion/Coalition
01.2015 - 12.2018
- Corey has served as Chair of the Board of Directors of New York State Labor Religion/Coalition.
- Led coalition initiatives to address labor issues affecting diverse communities.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to develop strategic plans for advocacy and outreach efforts.
- Facilitated meetings to discuss key labor policies and promote equitable practices.
- Developed partnerships with various organizations to enhance support for workers' rights initiatives.
- Developed long-term strategic plans to guide organizational growth and success.
Board of Directors
Albany County’s Land Bank
01.2016 - 09.2016
- He served on the inaugural board of Directors for Albany County’s Land Bank. The land bank was created to deal with the blight and abandoned buildings in Albany County.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Board of Directors
Albany Community Action Partnership
01.2006 - 2012
- Corey served on the Board of Directors for Albany Community Action Partnership that runs Albany Head Start Programs, a program Corey attended as a child.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Education
Associate's degree - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Hudson Valley Community College
Troy, NY05.1994
Bachelor's - Political Science
Fordham University
New York, NY05.1997
Skills
- Strategic advocacy
- Legislative analysis
- Policy development
- Board governance
- Public speaking
- Coalition building
- Nonprofit leadership
- Staff training
- Negotiation
- Budget management
- Staff management
- Stakeholder engagement
Awards
The community has recognized Corey’s contribution with numerous awards including Metro Land Local Hero Award, Hudson Valley Community College Humanitarian Service Award, NAACP Public Service Award, Founders Day Award from Albany City PTA, Bishop Maginn Hall of Fame, and our New York State Comptroller’s Labor recognition award.
Timeline
Chair
Albany Black Chamber of Commerce
01.2023 - 12.2025
Upstate Political Director
New York State Nurse Association
05.2018 - 12.2025
President
Albany Common Council
01.2018 - Current
Board of Directors
Albany County’s Land Bank
01.2016 - 09.2016
Chair of the Board of Directors
New York State Labor Religion/Coalition
01.2015 - 12.2018
Board of Directors
Albany Community Action Partnership
01.2006 - 2012
Associate's degree - Liberal Arts And Sciences
Hudson Valley Community College
Bachelor's - Political Science
Fordham University