Meet the Live in Lou City Champs!
Born and raised here, Rebecca moved away for 17 years but came back to stay for good in 2013. A self-proclaimed “park person”, she is a part of the Association of Nature Center Administrators and several organizations that plant trees in urban areas. She also is a bluegrass musician and volunteers with Bluegrass Anonymous and the Louisville Folk School. She and her husband live in Germantown and often find themselves biking to the Speed Art Museum, Waterfront Park, and Cherokee Park, where she jogs the trails with her dog. She also loves to hike at Jefferson Memorial Forest!
A Louisville native, Debbie is a go to resource for your relocation questions and needs! Debbie currently serves as the Director of Corporate Relocation Business Development with Semonin Realtors where she works closely with existing and perspective Louisville companies and their transferees each day. A diehard ice hockey mom at heart, in her free time Debbie enjoys spending time with her family attending Indy car races, volunteering, and enjoying the local music scene.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Xaimara graduated from the University of Central Florida and found herself in Louisville for a professional development opportunity. She currently serves as an Advisory Board member for the Backside Learning Center and is a member of YPAL. For her, being a City Champ is a way that individuals in the Hispanic community have a resource they identify with and feel comfortable reaching out to. She loves bar hopping around town, karaoke nights at Akikos, walks across the bridge, and night racing at Churchill Downs!
Andy, originally from outside Chicago, IL, relocated to Louisville in 2020 with his wife, who is a Louisville native. They saw it as a perfect place to raise their family and seize opportunities to connect with new people. Andy is a dedicated board member for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society of KY, TN, & IN, actively participating in fundraising events like Walk MS: Louisville 2023 and Misters for MS 2023. He's also contributed as a past member of the Friends of the Louisville Zoo, focusing on sponsorship initiatives. Andy cherishes the Highlands, often strolling down Bardstown Road with a coffee in hand, and finds joy in cycling through Cherokee Park.
As the Tourism Sales Manager for Niche and Affinity Markets with Louisville Tourism, Rose is responsible for responsible for growing our Black and African American and LGBTQ+ visitation. Rose is a true guru for all things Louisville, whether it’s wanting to learn more about attractions, restaurants, shopping, or Kentuckiana’s hidden gems, she’s your go-to person! Rose enjoys spending her free time running through Louisville’s many parks, checking out local breweries, and spending time on both sides of the Ohio River.
Kelly has absolutely loved the city of Louisville since relocating here in 2011. She enjoys attending events, visiting local businesses, and drinking bourbon. She loves Louisville's local dining scene and is a member of the Yelp Elite Squad, as well as a Certified Tourism Ambassador. Kelly lives in Shelby Park and runs the neighborhood's Instagram page.
Kayla, originally from Alaska, relocated to Louisville to be nearer to family. She aspires to be a city ambassador, passionate about her beloved Clifton neighborhood. Kayla enjoys strolls around the reservoir and is dedicated to supporting local businesses, cherishing the city's history, and highlighting what makes Louisville unique and vibrant today!
Jennifer, a former Elizabethtown resident, settled in Louisville in 2018 after her husband's relocation from Michigan. She's captivated by the diverse activities Louisville offers, from 5k runs to vibrant festivals and flea markets. Jennifer's deep affection for the city fuels her desire to become a City Champ, connecting with like-minded individuals and professionals. Actively involved in job fairs, she seeks opportunities for networking and potential collaborations with other companies. Jennifer treasures her Oldham County neighborhood and frequently explores the nature preserves, often accompanied by her rescue dog during Saturday runs. An avid fitness enthusiast, she participates in bodybuilding competitions like Kentucky Muscle. Jennifer also relishes shopping and dining at trendy restaurants. She's a regular at J-town beach for volleyball matches and recently joined a league on Sundays.
Nicholas moved back to Louisville from a rural part of the state to be back in a city with art, culture, diversity, entertainment, people to meet, and opportunities to get involved. His favorite thing about the city is it’s big small-town or small big-city size, as he never runs out of things to do (from music and art festivals to street fests and outdoor recreation) without becoming overwhelming with traffic or long commutes. This is especially true for his neighborhood of Saint Joseph where he is just a few minutes away from major amenities, UoL campus, and all the bars, coffee shops, and entertainment venues in Schnitzelberg, Germantown, and Shelby Park!
Tonya has traveled quite a bit, but says that there's nowhere she'd rather live than her hometown of Louisville! She joined City Champs to engage with folks new to the city to make their first experiences good ones, and to learn from others, as she enjoys any interaction with people from different backgrounds, experiences and cultures. Tonya likes to go to sporting and arts events and discovering new places to eat. She also volunteers with various community organizations, Russell initiatives, and Dare to Care food bank.
Robyn moved to Louisville in 2002 and quickly fell in love with the city and the robust culture. In her spare time, Robyn enjoys writing, hiking and time with her three daughters. Her favorite things to do in Louisville include walking the Big Four Bridge, visiting the Frazier History Museum and the Parklands at Floyds Fork.
From Louisville originally, Ashley has tried moving away multiple times, but found herself drawn back again and again. She loves sharing with her friends and family the unique experiences Louisville has to offer when they come to stay in town, especially anything that has to do with the many festivals and performances all throughout the year.
Charlie has never had a dull or quiet day in his hometown with all of the food, sports, and social atmosphere Louisville has going on, especially in the Highlands and Nulu, which are his favorite neighborhoods. He spends his free time working with professional development groups like YPAL and the UofL Graduate Business Alumni Council and non-profits such as Make-A-Wish and Metro United Way.
Randy has been in Louisville his whole life. He gives credit for keeping him engaged in his hometown to the low cost of living, central location, incredible arts and foodie communities, and the opportunities to be involved in so many wonderful organizations. He In his spare time, Ricky enjoys hot yoga, Orange Theory, hiking, cooking, and drinking bourbon.
Charity's connection with Louisville dates back to her family's move in 2003! She completed high school at Atherton and earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisville. Her deep love for the city drives her desire to be actively engaged in its thriving community. As a Ph.D. student at Bellarmine University and a graduate representative on the President's Advisory Board on Equity and Inclusion, Charity is devoted to fostering positive change. She's a dedicated volunteer for various non-profits and actively involved in organizations like YPAL and Leadership Louisville. With a background in education and a role as Vice President of the Humana Women's Network Resource Group, she's a force for empowerment. Charity's passion for small businesses and local eateries is evident as she enjoys strolling from one to the next. Exploring new restaurants is her favorite pastime, emphasizing her appreciation for Louisville as a vibrant foodie hub.
Moving from India in 2015, Sachin now explores local eateries in Nulu and Germantown and enjoys participating in volunteer work to give back, which includes supporting people interested in moving to our beautiful city!
Settling into their new home in the Beechmont neighborhood, Garrett returned to their hometown to be close to friends and family. Coming back to the city has renewed their interest in exploring places in the city they haven’t ever been to before and taking classes to expand their many artistic hobbies, like weaving at the Little Loomhouse.
After returning to the city in 2020, Kathryn now is heavily involved in programs in the area, including Associate AIA, NCARB, Associate IIDA, and YPAL. One of her favorite aspects of her job as a designer and project manager of an architectural firm here is getting to know the different people involved in the development and enrichment of the city – from developers and contractors to musicians and artists.
Brittany has called Louisville home for the past 22 years, having moved here to be closer to her family. With a deep connection to the community, she aspires to become a city champ. Brittany actively participates in numerous local events and iconic festivals like Nulu Bock Fest, Gaslight Festival, and Tailspin. Her knowledge of the city's culture is enriched by her role at a local bar, where she provides valuable insights to newcomers. Beyond that, she serves as a community relations advisor, election poll worker, Yelp elite, and volunteers for several organizations, including Boys and Girls Haven and the Arthritis Foundation. Brittany is also a dedicated UofL sports fan, holding season tickets for both football and basketball. She's a go-to resource for information on local festivals, nightlife, restaurants, sporting events, and the University of Louisville.
A native Louisvillian that found herself back in town after leaving for graduate school, Devyn is excited to be here and explore new places now that she is back, especially after learning more about Frankfort Avenue, Highview, and Nulu neighborhoods. Her new routine includes exploring local boutiques, bookstores, and each of the unique libraries around town and checking out the parks with her dog.
Demetrius fell in love with the city 13 years ago when he moved here to open all of the local Roosters restaurant locations, met his wife, and decided to make his life here permanently! With his background as a chef, he and his wife love to try new places to eat and check out the local breweries, farmers markets, and the many festivals, from art to food trucks, that come through town.
Born and raised in Southern Indiana, Lisa and her husband Chris live in Jeffersonville, Indiana. She has been actively involved in Louisville and Southern Indiana most of her life through various careers and serving in the community. Meeting and connecting with others is important to her and this is why she is a City Champ.
Lisa owns her own business, Lantern Enterprises and works for HR Affiliates as their Strategic Partnership Manager. She is an Ambassador for Greater Louisville, Inc. and the Jeffersontown Chamber as well as an active Alumnus of Leadership Southern Indiana. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Metro United Way and Hosparus Health.
Lisa enjoys exploring the region going to the great restaurants, shops, breweries, distilleries, parks, and events. She loves this entire region because it is fun with all the cool things to do through the arts, local attractions, educational opportunities, sporting events, food and beverage options, green spaces, and history. But she thinks the best part of this region is the wonderful, friendly, and caring people who live here, on both sides of the Ohio River.
Elizabeth, while not originally from Louisville, has developed a deep connection with the city over the years. Her journey began with work at the University of Louisville in 2009, which eventually led to her family relocating to Louisville in 2011 for a better work-life balance. She has a profound appreciation for the city's rich arts scene, the Ohio River, the Kentucky Derby Festival, diverse restaurants, schools, concerts, Museum Row, the zoo, various neighborhoods, libraries, and sports. Elizabeth is passionate about helping newcomers discover the best of Louisville, and her involvement in community-building, professional organizations, and volunteer work reflects her commitment. She has a special fondness for Clifton, the Highlands, and downtown Middletown. Elizabeth’s go-to recommendation for out-of-town guests is the Kentucky Derby Museum, and she enjoys exploring Museum Row, attending shows at the Kentucky Center for the Arts, and relishing concerts and dining experiences. She also values the city's green spaces and park systems.
Originally from Chicago, Stephanie found herself in Louisville in 2010. She loves that her job requires her to connect with community organizations, as well as volunteering with the Louisville Sports Commission and Down Syndrome of Louisville. A constant attendee at events held at the many music venues across the city (Iroquois Amphitheater is her favorite!), she loves stumbling on live music by chance in town. And of course, you can find her at Forecastle, Louder than Life, Bourbon and Beyond, The Big Stomp, and Waterfront Wednesdays.
As the Communications Director for the Kentuckiana Pride Foundation, Todd is deeply connected to Louisville's community. With a genuine love for the city, he aspires to share his knowledge of local events and dining spots, making him an invaluable asset to newcomers and residents alike. Todd's passion for meeting people and showcasing Louisville's charm positions him as a welcoming ambassador. His strong communication skills and extensive community involvement, spanning organizations like the American Red Cross and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, highlight his commitment. Todd's favorite neighborhoods, Downtown and the Highlands, reflect his love for the vibrant atmosphere, where he enjoys spending time with friends.
Matt moved to Louisville for career opportunities in 1991 and the city has shaped his career and community involvement ever since! Matt is a member of many professional organizations that include the Kentucky American Planning Association, American Public Works Association, Jeffersontown Chamber of Commerce, and the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency, to name a few. Matt is heavily involved in the workings of Jeffersontown, helping to establish the neighborhood through the popular Gaslight Festival, farmer’s market, and Jtown Beerfest.
A proud Louisville native, Graham spends much of his time with his membership in the Louisville Hash House Harriers, the Louisville Magic Club, and the Governor’s Commission to Support People with Intellectual and Development Disabilities. His favorite neighborhood is Schnitzelburg, where he attends weekly trivia nights at Merryweather, going to shows at the Louisville Comedy Club and Planet of the Tapes.
Jeff is a City Champ and a proud Louisville native with 60 years of cherished memories. He's motivated by the desire to share his deep knowledge of the city's history and neighborhoods with newcomers. Jeff holds a special affection for the Highlands and Germantown areas. He finds joy in visiting local restaurants and taverns, creating memories with his grandkids at the zoo, and cheering on UofL in football and basketball games. Jeff also relishes attending Bats games and immersing himself in the annual festivals that bring the city to life. Walking through the neighborhood is another favored pastime for this passionate Louisvillian.
Yumiko, originally from California and with ties to Hawai'i and Kansas, settled in Louisville in 2008 due to a spouse's transfer to Fort Knox. Embracing her new home, she's developed a deep appreciation for the city's vibrant culture. Yumiko is enthusiastic about being a City Champ, eager to share her "hometown tourist" experiences with fellow transplants. Her involvement with the Asia-Institute Crane House and past work with a local non-profit highlight her dedication to the community. Yumiko finds joy in exploring the diverse events Louisville offers, with WorldFest being a particular favorite. She admires the unique personalities of different neighborhoods and enjoys leisurely strolls in the historic homes of Old Louisville, where she finds it easier to walk. For Yumiko, Louisville's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of culinary delights.
Originally from Owensboro, Joe works in banking as Payment Solutions Market Manager for U.S. Bank/Elavon, specializing in small business banking. Joe is also on the Board of Directors for Second Chances Wildlife Center. He really enjoys soccer, and is a season ticket holder for the Racing Louisville FC team! This year, his mission is to complete the Ale Trail this year to try all the awesome breweries.
Erica was born and raised in Louisville and has loved watching the city evolve from a sleepy southern town to a blossoming center of art and commerce. She enjoys all forms of art including visual, performing, and literary. In her spare time, Erica enjoys writing, doing yoga, sipping on good bourbon and exploring Louisville’s local ethnic food scene.
Alex is the Assistant Director of Admissions for UofL's Brandeis School of Law and board president at the Louisville German American Club, plus she moonlights at Headliners Music Hall. She was born in Louisville, grew up in Southern KY and moved back to the “hometown of her heart” in 2003 for college. She is great at making connections and enjoys sharing the things she loves about Louisville such as the music scene ranging from the orchestra to the local bands like My Morning Jacket and Jack Harlow. Alex enjoys volunteering at local events, often as a bartender. Her favorite neighborhood is where she calls home, Germantown, and she especially enjoys hanging around Goss Avenue, the Barrett Corridor, Logan Street Market, and considers NachBar her living room.
Tosha is originally from a small town in Indiana but moved here for college in 2010, and has found her favorite parts of the city to be the food options, the parks, and the performing arts scene. She coaches the dance team at Butler Traditional High School, and frequently attends shows at the Kentucky Center & Actor's Theater along with many of the local music venues. She volunteers with Junior Achievement teaching about entrepreneurship and coaches other young professionals on career building, professional development opportunities, and resume design. She wants to help others realize the unique opportunities and offerings that Louisville has to offer, and show them what she loves most about the city.
Louisville’s big city amenities that sit beautifully alongside its rich and historic charm drew London in from her time living in Chicago and hometown of Charlotte, NC and she hasn’t looked back after living here for 15 years. London spends her time outside of work as an advocate in her community by serving on the Board of Directors for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Kentuckiana and the Whitney/Strong organization, and participating in professional development programs such as the Leadership Louisville Center’s Ignite and Leadership Louisville programs, and Leadership Kentucky.
Moving from Maine to Louisville for family and to start his business, McKenzie now takes full advantage of the city’s Waterfront Wednesdays, Shakespeare in the Park, and enjoying the many public parks dotted across the area. He volunteers his time at a behavioral health and criminal justice-related nonprofit and serves as a board member for a business looking to provide housing to formerly incarcerated individuals.
Merry-Reid never had been to Louisville before her job interview here in 2019, yet now never plans to leave because of how much love she has for the city! She is an active member in the Black Market garden, Leadership Louisville’s Ignite Challenge, and the Governor’s Employment First Council. With her experiences, she is excited to connect with prospective young professionals looking to learn more about the city.
Growing up as an army brat, Stephen always was told “home is where the heart is” and his heart is definitely in Louisville! He is involved in YPAL, Louisville Adult Hockey Players Association, UofL Alumni Association, and is Friends of the Zoo. His family are season ticket holders at Lou City, and you can often find them at concerts, Racing FC, and UofL games. In the summer and fall, you can find them kayaking in Floyds Fork and Harrods Creek.
Kate has called Louisville home since 2019 when she relocated from Denver, CO with her partner and daughter. The three live with their two dogs in a historic home in Old Louisville. Kate is the director of strategic initiatives at Fund for the Arts where she works with communities, artists, and arts organizations to ensure that arts are amplified in neighborhoods across the region. In addition to a career in non-proft and arts leadership, she is a theatre-maker and educator. Kate enjoys the thriving Louisville arts landscape, local restaurants, and breweries, and exploring the many gorgeous green spaces across the region.
Tiffany arrived in Louisville back in 2000 after attending school in Chicago. As a mother of two, Tiffany enjoys volunteering with various non-profits, playing sand volleyball a few times a week and staying involved in the community. In her spare time, she enjoys live music and the Louisville Arts scene. Some of her favorite restaurants include Mussel & Burger, El Taco Luchador, Volare, Proof and many more.
Ethan is originally from Huntingburg, IN, and loves that Louisville has provided him with so much opportunity and other unforgettable experiences! In addition to his career at Waystar, he has worked with the city’s large music festivals and recently joined an LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group, which is a part of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at his company. He enjoys trying new restaurants around town, and going to live shows. On the city of Louisville, Ethan says “I think Louisville is often overlooked city by people looking for a change, and I think that has to do with Louisville being filled with hidden gems that a lot of locals know about!”