About Cory
Inspiration
Cory is very passionate about the youth and giving back to his community. He was fortunate growing up, to have his father to look up to as a male role model. As a kid, Cory was exposed to numerous opportunities that led him to having a successful career. Throughout his journey, he has seen the negative impact of those who did not have a positive role model, which drove him to start this foundation.
Cory is a proud father to his daughter, Cailyn. When they’re not off on an adventure, you can find them spending time at church or enjoying father-daughter dates—making memories and sharing laughs wherever they go.
"If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Story
Cory Holt is a strategic HR leader and community advocate with a passion for youth mentorship and healthcare transformation.
Originally from Lexington, NC, Cory is a proud graduate of Lexington Senior High School. After high school, he attended Hargrave Military Academy before continuing his education at Virginia Tech University, where he earned a B.S. in Apparel Housing Resource Management. As a four-year letterman on the football team, he contributed to three ACC Championship victories. He later earned an MBA with a focus in Human Resources Management.
Now residing in Kernersville, Cory serves as Director, HR Business Partner at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, where he oversees strategic HR initiatives for North Carolina Baptist Hospital, Davie Medical Center, and High Point Medical Center.
Outside of work, Cory is deeply committed to community service and youth mentorship. He serves on the boards of the Charles and Julia England Foundation and Leadership Winston-Salem, and previously served on the board of Hospice of Davidson County. An alum of Leadership Winston-Salem, Cory is passionate about fostering youth development and community engagement. He also participates in the North Carolina Healthcare Foundation’s Diverse Mentorship Program. In this role, he collaborates with hospital executives across the state to create healthier communities.
Driven by his own positive experiences and a desire to give back, Cory founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to education, recreation, and outreach. He is an active member of Elevation Church in Winston-Salem, where he supports the eKidz service and participates in various outreach initiatives.
Cory continues to lead with purpose, driven by faith, family, and a commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.
"The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention."
- Oscar Wilde