Governor Laura Kelly Announces Post-Gubernatorial Career Move: Becoming a Life Coach in Kansas Corrections System

Topeka, KS — In a surprising and inspiring announcement today, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly revealed her next chapter after completing her term in office: becoming a certified life coach, working directly with individuals in the state’s corrections system.

“I’ve spent years fighting for education, health care, and public safety. Now, I want to work face-to-face with Kansans on the ground — helping people rewrite their own stories,” said Governor Kelly during a press conference held outside the Topeka Correctional Facility.

Governor Kelly, who has long advocated for second chances and rehabilitation-focused justice, said the decision came after several visits to state correctional facilities during her time in office. “The resilience and potential I’ve seen in these facilities moved me,” she said. “These are people who’ve made mistakes, but they’re also people who want to grow. And I want to be part of that transformation — not from the Capitol, but from the inside.”

According to her office, Kelly is undergoing certification through the Kansas Board for Professional Coaching and plans to start working with individuals at the Lansing Correctional Facility beginning in the fall of 2027.

Corrections Secretary Jeff Zmuda praised the move, calling it “a bold and deeply human gesture.” He added, “Not many governors would trade in the Governor’s Mansion for a corrections badge and a clipboard, but Governor Kelly has never been afraid to do things differently.”

Kelly says she’ll be focusing on helping people set goals, build accountability plans, and reconnect with families — and yes, she’ll still be wearing her signature purple.

“I’ve been called a lot of things over the years,” Kelly joked. “Now you can call me Coach.”