Financial Advisor

Business/Organization Represented:
Baird Financial

Chip Sutherland began his public finance career in 2002 at Hilliard Lyons, providing investment banking and municipal advisory services. He joined Baird in 2019 after acquiring Hilliard Lyons and currently serves as a Managing Director. Throughout his career, Sutherland has led over $15 billion in issuances for a variety of municipal clients, including universities, schools, utilities, authorities, healthcare institutions, and water/sewer districts, all while prioritizing community engagement and development.

A strong advocate for community-focused initiatives, Sutherland has spearheaded numerous high-profile financings that enhance local infrastructure and services. He has served as a financial advisor to the Louisville Arena Authority/KFC Yum! Center since 2012, leading a $387 million restructuring in 2017 that upgraded the entity’s credit rating from junk to A-. His efforts have contributed to the arena’s role as a vital community asset. Additionally, he has collaborated extensively with the Louisville Metro Government on projects that benefit the city, including constructing the $300 million Omni Hotel.

Sutherland has also facilitated over $1.2 billion in issuances for the University of Kentucky, funding critical campus projects that enhance educational opportunities and community access. Most recently, he served as lead municipal advisor on UofL Health’s $411 million financing and was awarded the 2022 Bond Buyer Healthcare Deal of the Year, further demonstrating his commitment to improving community health services.

In addition to capital market bond issues, Sutherland has vast experience with non-traditional municipal financings, including direct placements, forward deliveries, and revolving credit facilities. He advises on derivatives, short-term financings, federal loan programs, variable rate products, credit enhancements, guaranteed investment contracts, rating strategies, and Public-Private Partnerships. His relationships with investment banks enable him to create custom debt solutions.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Kentucky and an MBA from Bellarmine University. Sutherland is licensed through FINRA as an Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative (Series 6), General Securities Representative (Series 7), registered Municipal Advisor (Series 50), and registered under the Uniform Securities Agent State Law (Series 63).

Chief Operations Officer

Mark 9:23 states, “All things are possible for those who believe.” Rita Phillips embodies this belief, which has propelled her throughout her life’s journey. Her transformative leadership has advanced community initiatives towards sustainability, challenging the limits of perseverance, patience, and promise.  Rita holds the conviction that when passion aligns with purpose, genuine change emerges.

Early in her career, Rita focused on recruiting minority, female, and physically impaired candidates for job opportunities. She championed corrective measures and policy changes in instances of discrimination and monitored adherence to Federal and other legal standards to guarantee equal opportunities for the marginalized

As a results-oriented leader, Rita boasts over forty years of experience across public, private, and governmental sectors.  She excels in relationship marketing and business management, providing vision, strategic direction, and goal setting. Her reputation is solidified by her ability to forge business and community partnerships, turning challenges into triumphs.

A seasoned entrepreneur and former U.S. Army Reservist, Rita obtained her Bachelors of Health Science degree from the University of Kentucky and her Masters of Science in Community Development from the University of Louisville.

The Center for Women and Families awarded Rita the Joan E. Thomas Lifetime Achievement Award for her community service, and she was named one of Louisville’s 100 Fascinating Women by author Nancy Miller.

Rita and her husband, Joseph, have two daughters, two son-in-loves and seven amazing grandchildren.

Human Resource Consultant

Morgan Lewis is a seasoned Human Resources consultant and the Employee Experience Director for a leading global technology firm, where she manages strategic HR operations across multiple regions. Her focus on enhancing employee relations and operational efficiencies has made her a pivotal asset in driving business success.

Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, with formative years in Louisville, Kentucky, Morgan now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. She is the founder of Morgan Creates LLC, a dynamic food and lifestyle brand that extends its reach into business consulting. Under this brand, Morgan offers specialized services such as coaching, training, talent attraction, workforce optimization, and organizational planning, strategy, and design. She has successfully helped clients streamline processes, scale operations, and set up comprehensive HR frameworks.

In addition to her consulting work, Morgan is a self-published author of cookbooks, combining her passion for culinary arts with her expertise in business and strategy. This multifaceted approach allows her to connect with a diverse audience, providing insights and guidance through both her professional services and culinary endeavors.

Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Organizational Management from Agnes Scott College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Dayton. She is a certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), dedicating her career to upholding the highest standards of HR excellence and business innovation.

President & CEO

Laura Douglas received her undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of Louisville where she was a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, CWENS, and Mortar Board honor societies. She received her Law Degree from the University of Louisville, becoming the first African American woman to do so, and has been a member of the Kentucky Bar Association and licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Kentucky since 1974.

As a practicing attorney, Laura has served as in-house counsel for Standard Oil Company, Director of Community Development for the Legal Aid Society, General Counsel for the Metropolitan Sewer District, and General Counsel for the Louisville Water Company. Her professional experience also includes serving as Cabinet Secretary of the Public Protection and Regulation Cabinet for Governor Paul Patton. She was responsible for regulating Kentucky’s Public Defender system, Alcohol Beverage Control, Banking, Insurance, and the coal mining industry throughout Kentucky. Her professional experience also includes serving as the Vice President of Community Relations for LG&E and KU Energy where she was responsible for all community investments for the company.

After retirement, Laura served as co-executive Director of TARC and CEO of The Muhammad Ali Center while both organizations conducted national searches for permanent leaders.

Throughout her professional career, Laura has also served on the Boards of numerous organizations, including Leadership Louisville; Louisville Bar Association; University of Louisville Foundation; Actors Theatre; Louisville Ballet; Muhammad Ali Center, Federal Reserve Bank – St. Louis Branch; Republic Bank; Women for Women, and Metro United Way.  She has also served as a member of the Louisville Tourism Commission. She currently serves as a voluntary hearing officer for the Kentucky Bar Association where she hears and decides disciplinary cases brought against Kentucky lawyers. She serves as a member of the City’s Ethics Commission.

Board Counsel

Amy D. Cubbage is a litigator with the Louisville law firm Tachau Meek PLC and serves as outside general counsel to the West End Opportunity Partnership. Amy’s practice focuses on complex commercial and constitutional litigation, including governmental entity litigation, counseling and compliance, general commercial litigation, employment litigation, information security and privacy, trust and estate litigation, healthcare litigation (including medical employment contracts), government contracts, elections, and campaign finance, and federal and state constitutional claims. She has particular expertise with injunctive relief claims, having been the first chair in numerous preliminary and permanent injunction hearings in state and federal courts. 

Before joining Tachau Meek in 2022, Amy served as General Counsel to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. Amy also served previously as Vice Chairman and Commissioner of the Kentucky Public Service Commission, and Deputy Secretary of the Labor Cabinet, and has practiced privately in both local and regional law firms. Amy is a former president of the Kentucky Bar Association.

She is a graduate of Georgetown College and the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law.

Business/Organization Represented:
Parkland Neighborhood

Sharon Allen is a single mother to one son. Sharon has lived in Louisville’s West End all of her life and has been an employee of Ford Motor Company for 30 years.

In her spare time, Sharon enjoys watching movies, sewing, cooking, being with family, and attending church.

Business/Organization Represented:
Shawnee Neighborhood

With over two decades of professional experience, Aleshia R. Burns is a highly skilled Accountant (EagleLove Accounting Consultancy Firm) and Real Estate Agent (Eternal, LLC) in Louisville, KY. Holding dual degrees a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Aleshia R. Burns has built a robust career rooted in financial acumen and real estate expertise.

Throughout a 20+ year career, Aleshia R. Burns has consistently demonstrated a keen ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, offering services that include tax planning, financial statement preparation, auditing, and business consulting. Aleshia R. Burns is adept at ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, providing clients with accurate and insightful financial guidance.

In addition to accounting, Aleshia R. Burns is a licensed real estate agent bringing a unique blend of financial and market insights to the real estate industry. Affiliated with the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) Louisville Association, Aleshia R. Burns is an active Realtist who specializes in residential real estate. She helps clients make informed decisions whether buying, selling, or investing in property.

Aleshia R. Burns is not only a dedicated professional but also an ordained minister and active member of Broadway Temple A.M.E. Zion Church. This role highlights a commitment to community service and spiritual leadership. Enriching both personal and professional spheres. Aleshia R. Burns’s involvement in the church and local community reflects a deep-seated belief in integrity, service, and compassion.

Outside of professional commitments, Aleshia R. Burns enjoys participating in community activities, supporting local businesses, physical fitness, and spending time with family. This balanced approach to life and work underscores a dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and making a positive impact.

Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings.
Service: Providing exceptional service and support to clients and the community.
Excellence: Striving for excellence in every aspect of work and life.

Aleshia R. Burns’s diverse skills, educational background, and community involvement make Aleshia R. Burns a standout professional in both the accounting and real estate sectors in Louisville, KY.

Business/Organization Represented:
University of Louisville

Dr. Douglas Craddock, Jr. is the Vice President of Community Engagement & University Relations at the University of Louisville, where he plays a pivotal role in enhancing and expanding the institution’s outreach and impact within the community.

With a focus on broadening connections and fostering collaboration, Dr. Craddock is instrumental in driving the university’s mission to contribute positively to the region’s social and economic development.

In his capacity, Dr. Craddock oversees a variety of key initiatives, including the Signature Partnership, a program dedicated to improving the quality of life and economic opportunities for residents of West Louisville. This initiative seeks to bridge gaps in social, educational, health, and economic areas through strategic partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, and other organizations. His leadership in this program underscores his commitment to addressing disparities and promoting equitable growth within the community.

Dr. Craddock also manages several other impactful programs, such as Cards Come Together—a week of service organized by the university aimed at fostering community engagement among students and staff. Additionally, he oversees federally funded programs like TRIO, Upward Bound, and Talent Search, which provide crucial support to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. These programs are designed to enhance educational access and opportunities for underrepresented groups. His role also extends to the student philanthropy program and the UofL Annual Engaged Scholarship Symposium, which highlight and promote the university’s dedication to community service and scholarly engagement.

Dr. Craddock earned his doctoral degree in Higher Education and Administration from the University of Alabama. His academic and professional expertise lies in community-based participatory research, civic engagement, and higher education administration. His passion for improving organizational practices and fostering effective community collaboration is central to his work, reflecting a deep commitment to enhancing teamwork and mutual support among individuals and institutions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Craddock is an active community volunteer and enjoys spending quality time with his family. He is a strong advocate for the principle of “lift as you climb,” emphasizing the importance of education and social mobility. His dedication to these values is evident through his involvement with several community boards, including Metro United Way, One West, Opportunity Partnership, and the Local Initiative Corporation Board.

Dr. Craddock’s contributions to the community and his leadership have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored as one of Louisville’s Top 40 under 40 and is a distinguished member of the Leadership Louisville 2021–2022 Class. Additionally, he received the New Leaders Council Fellowship in 2022 and was a participant in the Leadership Kentucky Class of 2023. These accolades reflect his influential role in community development and his ongoing commitment to fostering positive change.

In his role at the University of Louisville, Dr. Craddock continues to drive initiatives that build bridges between the university and the community, leveraging his expertise to create lasting, impactful change.

Business/Organization Represented:
Metro Council District 1

Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins was elected in 2022 and took office in 2023. She has been a business owner and resident in District 1 for more than fifteen years.

In 2024, Councilwoman Hawkins was elected to serve as the Majority Caucus Vice Chair. She also serves as the Chair of the Public Safety Committee and is a member of the Government Oversight/Audit & Appointments Committee and Equity, Community Affairs, Housing, Health & Education Committee.

Hawkins started her journey in the district after working ten years in the healthcare industry as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She took a step forward with faith and began her journey to entrepreneurship by opening several businesses.

She has always had a passion for serving her community and has done so by organizing community coat drives, Thanksgiving food baskets, turkey give-a-ways, and Christmas Over Parkland.

She has created a safe place for kids to learn and grow with her childcare center, Kidz World, located in District 1. She has also tapped into her creative side with the creation of a football and cheerleading program.

Hawkins plans on staying authentic and grounded in her political journey of serving the District 1 community and Louisville as a whole. She is not here to make promises, but to make progress.

During her time canvassing she has heard from constituents from each part of the district about concerns including crime, public safety, infrastructure, sidewalks, streetlights, speed humps, services for our youth and seniors, and affordable housing.

She hopes to pave the way for ultimate change for the greater good of the community. Hawkins is the example of change and second chances and plans to make a broader change for a brighter future in District 1.

Business/Organization Represented:
Office of the Governor of Kentucky

In February 2024, Keith Jackson was appointed Secretary of the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. Immediately prior to stepping into this leadership role, Jackson served as the cabinet’s deputy secretary. He understands the cabinet’s critical role in creating safer communities for all and works to ensure the safety and security of Kentucky communities through an approach centered on protecting citizens, restoring victims, and reforming wrongdoers – all in a focused environment where everything is measured for accountability and performance.

Prior to joining the cabinet, Secretary Jackson served as the commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs where he was the Governor’s representative and advisor on all veterans-related matters and was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Department’s Benefits Branch, four Veteran Nursing Homes, five State Veteran Cemeteries, Employment Services Program, Homeless Veterans Program and Women Veterans Program.

During his 27-year career in the U.S. Army Reserves, Secretary Jackson served in numerous capacities ranging from platoon leader up to Battalion Command. He is a graduate of the Armor Officer Basic and Advanced Courses at Ft Knox, KY; Command and General Staff College, Ft Leavenworth, KS; and the Multifunctional Logistics Course at Ft Lee, VA. He served in Iraq in 2006 as the Operations Officer of the 352nd Combat Service Battalion, which conducted combat logistic patrols. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Combat Action Badge. In 2008, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and selected as Battalion Commander of the 373rd Quartermaster Battalion.

In addition to his military service, he began his municipal and public service career in January 1991 with the Lexington Fire Department. His first assignment was as a Firefighter with Engine Company 9. In 1993, he was certified as an Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic and assigned to Emergency Care 6. Jackson was promoted to Lieutenant in 2000, Captain in 2002, and Major in 2010 when he became the Hazardous Material Team leader for the Department. In 2011, he was appointed Assistant Chief of Administration, and then Interim Chief that same year. In June 2012, Chief Jackson made history by becoming the first African American appointed Chief of the Lexington Division of Fire and Emergency Services. In this capacity, he managed a 56-million-dollar budget, 540 Firefighters and 23 stations.

Secretary Jackson earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communications and received his commission from the University of Kentucky in 1987.

Business/Organization Represented:
Office of the Mayor of Louisville

David James is a native of Louisville who has dedicated his life to community service, public safety, and public service.

David has served on LMPD, and US Army Reserves as an Intelligence Specialist, as Commissioner of the Kentucky Bureau of Investigation, and as Metro Councilman for District 6. He was elected President of the Metro Council for 5 consecutive years.

David was appointed Deputy Mayor of Emergency Services in 2022 by Mayor Greenberg.

David married his sweetheart, Michelle on July 9th, 2011.

Business/Organization Represented:
Park Hill Neighborhood

Darlene Johnson-Jones retired after a 32-year career in telecommunications. She had a brief period working as a sales associate and bookkeeper at Home Depot. She holds degrees in accounting and computer programming. Since relocating to Louisville in 1985, she has been active with Telephone Pioneers, Clout, and Good Government. She is a trained EMT and is married to a native of Louisville. Her hobbies include gardening, fishing, hiking, and relishing the great outdoors.

Community Engagement Committee Chair

Business/Organization Represented:
Russell Neighborhood

Dr. Gabe Jones, Jr. PhD, MPH is a proud resident of the Russell neighborhood and an Assistant Professor of Public Health at the University of Louisville. Dr. Jones is passionate about community-engaged work and researches the relationship between wealth and health outcomes, economic policy, banking practices, social equity, and structural violence. Dr. Jones enjoys making music, playing chess, trying new food, and spending time with his family and friends.

Board Chair

Business/Organization Represented:
California Neighborhood

Dr. Mary Milliner is a certified teacher with a Doctorate of Education in leadership, a Master of Arts in teaching, specializing in Elementary Education, Instructional Computer Technology Endorsement, and a Master of Arts in School Counseling, with ten-plus years of youth and community service volunteerism, advocacy, and service training/education.

Dr. Milliner volunteered as Shawnee District Cub Scout Roundtable Commissioner, Day Camp Director, Cub Master – Brandies Elementary School, Program Specialist BOA Center for Women & Families, Policy Council & Advisory Council Member – Head Start Program Carter/DuValle Family Resource Center, National Honor Society Leader Clarksville Middle School, Archery, Rube Goldberg & Chess Team coach, as well as Black History Month Program Coordinator – Bridgepoint Elementary School.

Business/Organization Represented:
Portland Neighborhood

Mike Neagle lives in an 1850s home in the Portland neighborhood with his wife, 2 kids, 2 cats, and an oversized dog.

Business/Organization Represented:
Louisville Urban League

‬Lyndon‬‭ Pryor‬‭ is‬‭ the‬‭ President‬‭ and‬‭ CEO‬‭ of‬‭ the‬‭ Louisville‬‭ Urban‬‭ League,‬‭ a‬‭ historic‬‭ civil‬‭ rights‬‭ organization‬‭ part‬‭ of‬‭ the‬‭ National‬‭ Urban‬‭ League‬‭ movement.‬‭ He‬‭ leads‬‭ a‬‭ team‬‭ of‬‭ dynamic‬‭ individuals‬‭ who‬‭ are‬‭ working‬‭ to‬‭ transform‬‭ Louisville‬‭ into‬‭ a‬‭ more‬‭ equitable‬‭ community‬‭ for‬‭ Black‬‭ people‬‭ and‬‭ other‬‭ marginalized‬‭ populations‬‭ through‬‭ intentional‬‭ work‬‭ in‬‭ Jobs,‬‭ Justice,‬‭ Education,‬‭ Health,‬‭ Housing,‬‭ and‬‭ Black‬‭ Business.‬

‭ Prior‬‭ to‬‭ his‬‭ current‬‭ role,‬‭ Pryor‬‭ spent‬‭ eight‬‭ years‬‭ with‬‭ the‬‭ organization‬‭ in‬‭ various‬‭ capacities,‬‭ including‬‭ as‬‭ the‬‭ Chief‬‭ Engagement‬‭ Officer,‬‭ where‬‭ he‬‭ helped‬‭ to‬‭ spearhead‬‭ special‬‭ projects‬‭ like‬‭ A‬‭ Path‬‭ Forward‬‭ for‬‭ Louisville,‬‭ oversaw‬‭ all‬‭ communications‬‭ areas‬‭ for‬‭ the‬‭ organization,‬‭ and‬‭ enhanced‬‭ the‬‭ smooth‬‭ and‬‭ efficient‬‭ integration‬‭ of‬‭ services‬‭ to‬‭ maximize‬‭ the‬‭ potential‬‭ outcomes‬‭ for‬‭ every‬‭ League‬‭ participant.‬‭ Mr.‬‭ Pryor‬‭ also‬‭ created‬‭ and‬‭ led‬‭ the‬‭ League’s‬‭ community‬‭ health‬‭ program,‬‭“It‬‭ starts‬‭ with‬‭ me!”‬‭ and‬‭ helped‬‭ to‬‭ build‬‭ and‬‭ grow‬‭ Louisville’s‬‭ network‬‭ of‬‭ community‬‭ health‬‭ workers.‬‭ Since‬‭ then,‬‭ he‬‭ has‬‭ helped‬‭ to‬‭ establish‬‭ policy‬‭ positions,‬‭ internal‬‭ data‬‭ systems,‬‭ and‬‭ key‬‭ infrastructure‬‭ support‬‭ for‬‭ the‬‭ League’s‬‭ work.‬

‭ Before‬‭ arriving‬‭ in‬‭ Louisville,‬‭ Lyndon‬‭ was‬‭ a‬‭ Student‬‭ Development‬‭ Specialist‬‭ at‬‭ Texas‬‭ A&M‬‭ University,‬‭ where‬‭ he‬‭ worked‬‭ to‬‭ assist‬‭ students‬‭ in‬‭ their‬‭ personal‬‭ growth‬‭ and‬‭ build‬‭ their‬‭ professional‬‭ competencies‬‭ and‬‭ leadership‬‭ skills.‬‭ Mr.‬‭ Pryor‬‭ provided‬‭ critical‬‭ leadership,‬‭ supporting‬‭ students‬‭ by‬‭ creating‬‭ programs‬‭ that‬‭ effectively‬‭ merge‬‭ academic‬‭ and‬‭ practical‬‭ experiences.‬

‭ Mr.‬‭ Pryor‬‭ is‬‭ a‬‭ proud‬‭ former‬‭ student‬‭ of‬‭ Texas‬‭ A&M‬‭ University,‬‭ where‬‭ he‬‭ received‬‭ his‬‭ B.S.‬‭ in‬‭ Political‬‭ Science.‬‭ He‬‭ also‬‭ received‬‭ his‬‭ M.A.‬‭ in‬‭ Education‬‭ and‬‭ Human‬‭ Development‬‭ from‬‭ GWU.‬‭ He‬‭ is‬‭ a‬‭ husband,‬‭ father,‬‭ and‬‭ an‬‭ avid‬‭ believer‬‭ in‬‭ the‬‭ potential‬‭ of‬‭ all,‬‭ and‬‭ that‬‭ communal‬‭ knowledge‬‭ enhances‬‭ individual‬‭ growth.‬

Business/Organization Represented:
Park DuValle Neighborhood

Khris Romaine is a lifelong Louisville’s West End resident, deeply rooted in the community’s heart and committed to its growth and prosperity.

A proud graduate of Louisville Central High and the University of Louisville, Khris has leveraged education and experience to become a vocal advocate for positive change. His passion for uplifting the community is evident in his active involvement on multiple boards dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and families in the West End.

Throughout his adult life, Khris has demonstrated a profound understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations. He is committed to fostering collaboration between residents, businesses, and organizations to create a thriving and equitable neighborhood for all. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of community, Khris is dedicated to building a brighter future for the West End.

Khris grew up in the Shawnee neighborhood and after graduation, built his home in the Park DuValle neighborhood where he is active in the homeowners association. His personal experiences have shaped his perspective and fueled his desire to create a stronger, more supportive community.

Khris has been on the Board of Directors for St. George’s Scholar Institute for many years in many roles ensuring that our youth are getting quality, out-of-school time programming for social, emotional, and academic learning.

Khris is also a member of the Community Advisory Board of West Louisville. Their mission is to collaborate with the community, healthcare leaders, and policymakers to improve health outcomes in the neighborhoods throughout the West End and beyond.

Khris is a steadfast believer in the potential of the West End and is inspired by the resilience and spirit of its residents. He is committed to working tirelessly to create a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. He believes that the West End Opportunity Partnership has the potential to have a positive impact on the current residents of the West End neighborhoods for generations to come.

Business/Organization Represented:
Algonquin/Hallmark Neighborhoods

Desmond Smith Jr. is the owner of Smith Residential Construction and Foreignly_Proper Tattoos. Desmond is an entrepreneur with an artistic background. He was born and raised in West Louisville.

Business/Organization Represented:
Community Ventures Corporation

Kevin R. Smith currently serves as President and CEO of Community Ventures, a nonprofit community development organization serving residents and communities throughout Kentucky. Since 1993, Mr. Smith has led Community Ventures from a staff of one with $450,000 in assets to today’s 60-member team in six regional offices managing over $200 million in assets. During his tenure as President and CEO, the corporation has received more than $455 million in private and public investments for its training and lending programs.

Mr. Smith has over 35 years’ experience in designing, implementing, and capitalizing nonprofit programs.

Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair

Business/Organization Represented:
Rebublic Bank

William E. Summers, V is a 28-year veteran of the banking and financial industry. He started his career in 1995 with Great Financial Bank as a teller, quickly rising to be the branch manager of the location at 28th and Broadway. Before leaving the bank for another opportunity, Mr. Summer’s relationship-management skills were clearly recognized as a strength that people inside and outside of the organization noticed.

In 2004, Mr. Summers joined Old National Bank, a community bank headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, which was a new entrant into the Louisville market. During his time at Old National, Mr. Summers continued building his book of business, focusing more on corporate relationships while also becoming even more deeply involved in community activities. Mr. Summer’s proven record of producing and his ability to build relationships created a lot of opportunities. In 2005, he joined Central Bank of Jefferson County to start, what would become, a very successful private banking division, thanks in large part to Mr. Summer’s efforts. His success was rewarded by being promoted to a Senior Vice President at Central Bank, overseeing the retail banking and business development for the bank. Mr. Summers was with Central Bank of Jefferson County for 10 years, before he joined Republic Bank in 2015. Currently, Mr. Summers serves in the role of Senior Vice President/Chief Community/Business Development Officer of Republic Bank, overseeing the Republic’s corporate community engagement and Business Development efforts.

Mr. Summers serves on various boards in the community and continues to work with organizations that are committed to making our community better for all. He has an MBA from Bellarmine University, where he serves on their business advisory board, as well. Mr. Summers is a member of the Westport Road Church of Christ and has a daughter, Avery Elizabeth Summers (17), and a son, William E Summers, VI (10).

Business/Organization Represented:
Chickasaw Neighborhood

Gary Williams is an insurance broker who specializes in Medicare. He also tutors and coaches at the Parkland Boys and Girls Club in West Louisville. Outside of tutoring and coaching. Gary’s main hobbies are gardening, riding his motorcycle, and reading. He also loves sports.

Business/Organization Represented:
Louisville Metro Government

Jeff O’Brien is the Executive Director of the Economic Development Cabinet for the Louisville Metro Government. Jeff has over 20 years of experience with local community and economic development in Kentucky and Illinois. Jeff has been with Louisville Metro since 2013 and has led several major strategic and long-range initiatives for Louisville. His work focuses on infrastructure, real estate, economic and community development.

Mr. O’Brien holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Iowa. He is a member of the American Planning Association, the American Institute of Certified Planners and the Urban Land Institute.

Business/Organization Represented:
Commonwealth of Kentucky

Jeff Noel was appointed secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development in June 2022.

He is responsible for the development and administration of executive policies designed to support and promote the attraction of new jobs and investment to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, maintenance of existing industries, and overall support of economic growth for the state.

Noel previously served as Whirlpool’s corporate vice president of Communications and Public Affairs, reporting to the Chairman and CEO, a position he held since 2004. He also served as the president of Whirlpool Foundation, which includes oversight of the company’s 20-year relationship with Habitat for Humanity which has touched over 200,000 families.

Board Secretary & Development Committee Chair

Business/Organization Represented:
Volunteers of America Mid-States

Jennifer Hancock is the President and CEO of Volunteers of America of Mid-States. Jennifer earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Kentucky and earned her license to practice independently in 2001.

Jennifer has served in many capacities during her more than 25 years of professional leadership in the nonprofit sector and her 17 years advancing the mission of VOA. Under her leadership, VOA has become a nationally recognized expert in providing family-focused and results-oriented solutions for the opioid and addiction crisis.  Working closely with a wide range of elected officials and community leaders, the organization has earned consistent recognition for providing best-practice care in more than 30 programs across four states.

Since becoming CEO in 2015, Jennifer has led VOA through unprecedented growth and now oversees a $61MM budget and a team of more than 650 professionals. In addition to addiction recovery services, VOA also delivers solutions in the areas of veteran services, including suicide prevention, housing and homelessness, public health, comprehensive care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and a Restorative Justice program that helps to keep youth out of the criminal justice system. Her love for bringing diverse stakeholders together to solve complex social problems and seeing the tangible and many positive outcomes of the mission of VOA is what drives her most.

Jennifer is active in the community, serving on many boards, including as Chair of Impetus for a Better Louisville, University of Louisville Board of Overseers, University of Louisville School of Public Health, Smart on Crime, West End Opportunity Partnership, Louisville Economic Development Alliance, AdventHealth Hospital, 1 Clay County, You Decide, Kentucky!, and as an Advisory Council Member of Young Professionals Association of Louisville. She was recently honored to have her experience in the addictions field featured in Newsweek Magazine.  Jennifer received the 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024 Business First Power 50 Awards and the 2022 Enterprising Women Award.