Lilyn Hester

Lilyn Hester is a seasoned communications professional with a diverse background spanning over three decades. Currently serving as the Global Community Development and Engagement/AI Advisor at Google, Lilyn focuses on community initiatives in data center regions while also acting as an AI Advisor. Previous roles at Google include Head of Southeast External Affairs and Government Relations, where responsibilities included advocating for the company within various state and local communities across multiple southeastern states. Prior to joining Google, Lilyn held the position of Sr. Account Executive at Capstrat, managing communications strategies for prominent clients and excelling in crisis communications. As an entrepreneur, Lilyn co-founded a nursery and greenhouse, and has a history of freelance writing for notable publications, including The Charlotte Observer and Southern Living Magazine, as well as being recognized as the first African-American reporter at The News of Orange County. Lilyn holds a BA in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.