Kelli Houston

About Kelli

Kelli Houston is an award-winning healthcare executive, social justice advocate, speaker, author, and self-proclaimed "unintentional comedian" whose life and career have been shaped by a passion for helping people feel seen, valued, and inspired. With nearly two decades of experience in health and human services, she has led major Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Health Equity initiatives for organizations including Seattle Children's Hospital and Kaiser Permanente, and continues to serve as a Diversity and Equity consultant for healthcare systems across the country. At heart, however, Kelli is a storyteller. Through a series of unexpected twists, turns, and moments that could only be described as divine comedy, she discovered that one of her greatest gifts is finding humor in life's most surprising circumstances. As a speaker and author, she shares stories that are equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply inspiring, encouraging audiences to embrace the unexpected and trust the journey. Her debut memoir, *The Unintentional Comedian: Lessons from a Life Unexpected*, reflects that message. Revealing how some of life's greatest blessings can emerge from plans that never went according to plan. Born and raised in Reno, Nevada, Kelli now calls the beautiful Pacific Northwest home. She holds an MBA and a Women in Leadership certification from Cornell University. When she's not speaking, writing, or consulting, you'll likely find her laughing too loudly and loving every minute of it.