Senator Lori Urso is a Democrat representing District 8 in the Rhode Island State Senate. Elected in November 2024, she brings extensive experience in local government, nonprofit leadership, and historic preservation. Notable achievements include serving as president and CEO of the Old Slater Mill Association since 2014, preserving a national landmark; receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 1 for watershed conservation work; and co-chairing Pawtucket International Women's Day. She currently serves on the RI Historical Records Advisory Board and Pawtucket Riverfront Commission, and previously served nine years on the Pawtucket Foundation board.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Master of Public Administration from the University of Rhode Island; Bachelor of Arts from Rutgers University; graduate of Classical High School in Providence, RI.
• Political Experience: Member of the Westerly Town Council ; 2013 Rhode Island Foundation Leadership Fellow; elected to Rhode Island State Senate, District 8, in November 2024.
• Professional Background: Executive Director of Pettaquamscutt Historical Society; executive director of Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Council for ten years; musician leading the Black Vaudeville-revival ensemble Ursula George since 1999.