FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Media Contact: Sam Draut; Admin@ypal.org
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (May 28, 2026) — The Young Professionals Association of Louisville (YPAL) is proud to announce its new Board of Directors, with sponsorship support provided by Deloitte. The board will continue YPAL’s mission to connect, engage and develop young professionals to build a stronger Greater Louisville community.
The YPAL board of directors is composed of 20 members, including nine returning directors and 11 new members. Together, the board represents a broad range of industries, experiences and backgrounds.
“This board is an incredible group of passionate people united by a shared vision of a community shaped by the talent and leadership of young professionals,” said Sarah Kelley, president‑elect. “Together, we will champion innovation, foster collaboration and create opportunities that help Louisville’s young professionals thrive.”
The board will be led by Sarah Kelley, a longtime YPAL member, third‑year student at the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, and clerk for Satterley & Kelley PLLC. Kelley has served three terms on the board, including as director of technology, vice president of engagement and, most recently, president‑elect.
Kelley’s primary goal is to build on YPAL’s momentum since its transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2024 and to continue offering impactful programming that connects, engages and develops young professionals in the Greater Louisville area.
“YPAL has seen considerable growth over the last several years, and we’re excited to continue that work,” Kelley said. “We are proud of our role as a civic partner in the community and hope to expand our impact even further in the coming year.”
The board of directors will serve a one‑year term beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027.
Below is the complete list of board appointments:
President: Sarah Kelley, Satterley & Kelley PLLC
President-Elect: Ben Barberie, FBT Gibbons
Immediate Past President: Sam Draut, Norton Healthcare
Treasurer: Ted Graves, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC
Secretary: MacKenzie Cook, Stored Value Solutions
Vice President of Public Relations: Molly Jett Heim, Kentucky Derby Festival
Vice President of Connection: Jeliah Logan, AJS Hotels
Vice President of Engagement: Peggy Schnell, PNC Bank
Vice President of Development: Catherine Thompson, University of Louisville
Vice President of Philanthropy: Kristin Johnson, Senler, Campbell, & Associates
Director of Communications: Lucy Baseheart, Republic Bank
Director of Social Media: Olivia Estright, Louisville Business First
Director of Technology: Vivek Nirmal, Flexo Wash US
Director of Diversity & Inclusion: Dr. Maya Lynum-Walker, University of Louisville
Director of Recruitment: Ben Benavidez, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.
Director of Membership: Emalee Haynes, Baptist Health Louisville
Director of Community Outreach: Jonathan Vanderford, Kyndly Technologies
Director of Public Issues: Jaidyn Logan, Republic Bank
Director of Professional Development: Casey Foley, Farm Credit Mid-America
Director of Leadership: Peyton Brock, Oldham County Health Department
Meet members of the current and upcoming Board of Directors at the 2026 YPAL Awards on June 26 from 5:30 -7:30 p.m. at the Filson Historical Society. The awards will celebrate young professionals leading their community.
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About the Young Professionals Association of Louisville (YPAL)
Young Professionals Association of Louisville (YPAL) exists to connect, engage, and develop young professionals across Greater Louisville. With a growing membership representing a wide range of industries and backgrounds, YPAL provides meaningful opportunities for leadership development, community involvement, and professional networking. YPAL has served as the leading voice for the next generation shaping Louisville’s future since 1999. Learn more at ypal.org.
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