Cory Mason

The New Voice of Snow Days

The “I Am Williamson” column features individuals in Williamson County who are known and unknown staples of our community; doing good, being seen or behind the scenes, and always - exuding Williamson County. This month, we feature Cory Mason. Cory has taken the baton, from Carol Birdsong, as Executive Director of Communications for Williamson County Schools (WCS), and is now the voice behind delayed school days and school closures. He will be every WCS student’s favorite person for years to come! Learn more from Cory  here and see what he had to say as he gets ready for all those snow days!

How long have you lived in Williamson County and what makes it feel like home to you?

My wife and I moved to Williamson County in 2005. At that time, she had just accepted a job with the Williamson County District Attorney's Office, and I was working as a TV News Producer for WKRN. We wanted to live in a place where we could raise a family and live the kind of life we had always dreamed of. 

What is your profession, and what led you to choose it? 

I work in the Communications Department for Williamson County Schools. After working as a TV news producer for seven years, I was more than ready for a change. As luck would have it, a former colleague contacted me around that same time with news about a job opening in the Williamson County Schools communications department. I applied for the job and Carol Birdsong interviewed me. After meeting her, I instantly knew this was where I wanted to be.

How long have you been with Williamson County Schools?

I joined WCS in 2007 and have been with the district for more than eighteen years.

Three words that best describe you. 

Loyal. Diligent. Supportive.

What do you like to do in your spare time (hobbies, traditions, etc.)?

Travel and eat! There is nothing I enjoy more than exploring a new city and stuffing my face with all kinds of delicious food. 

Where is your favorite place to go in WC and why? 

Peter's Sushi and Thai in Brentwood. Did I mention I like to eat? Peter's Sushi is one of the first restaurants my wife and I visited after moving to Williamson County in 2005. We instantly fell in love with the place and have frequented it ever since. It's our "date night" go-to spot.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?

My wife, Jennifer. As the Deputy District Attorney for the 21^st Judicial District, she works tirelessly to keep our community safe. She has also served as the Williamson County Commissioner for District 3 since 2017. I see first-hand how she dedicates her life to making sure Williamson County remains the greatest county in the world, and it inspires me every day.

What organization(s) are you involved with and why?

Working in education, I'm a big believer that we should always be looking for ways to learn and improve. That's why I am a proud member of several professional organizations which include the Tennessee School Public Relations Association (TNSPRA), the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) and the National Information Officers Association (NIOA). These groups provide valuable professional development opportunities that allow me to grow and evolve as a communications professional.

What is the one thing you do not go a day without? 

Whether it's an americano, a cappuccino or an espresso, I always start my morning with a good cup of coffee.

Finish this statement: I AM Williamson because…  

I AM Williamson because I am invested in the success of our great school system. The foundation of our wonderful Williamson County community is built on a commitment to excellence that is shared by so many of our students, families and staff, and I am honored to be a part of it.