502 Connect Series presented by PNC

 

Do you ever wonder what it’s like to talk with the people actually shaping the future of Louisville? Not listening to a speech with the typical “any questions” at the end—a real conversation with the people in the room where decisions are made.

Welcome to YPAL’s 502 Connect Series. We designed this series to cut to the good stuff—small group discussions between you, other YPs and people in the know —think business execs, government officials and civic leaders.

Imagine having an opportunity to talk with business executives, government officials and civic leaders, ask questions and engage in thoughtful dialogue about the future of our city.

This is where YPAL’s voice meets Louisville’s leadership. Who knows what might come of these conversations. You’ll get to share your ideas and understand the city’s trajectory straight from the source.

Making it clear that there’s a place for young professionals in the future of Louisville, the 502 Connect Series is the next step in shaping what this place we call home looks like.

Don’t just watch Louisville grow—help inspire the growth.

Trevor Pawl, One Louisville – July 16, 2026

Trevor Pawl is the CEO of One Louisville, the official economic development organization and regional chamber of commerce focused on driving inclusive business attraction, expansion, and innovation across the Louisville region. In his first year guiding the city’s economic development (2025), Louisville announced 2,700+ new jobs and over $3 billion in capital investment—a record for the city.

Before coming to Louisville, Pawl was appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer as Michigan’s first Chief Mobility Officer, where he led more than 80 public-private partnerships that secured over $480 million for next-generation transportation projects. He also authored Michigan’s first statewide mobility strategy, setting a course for the state’s leadership in the global auto industry through 2030.

There were also several featured guests who met with attendees on July 16, 2026.

Kristen Byrd is PNC regional president for Kentucky. She oversees all aspects of PNC’s operations in Kentucky and southern Indiana, while driving collaboration across PNC’s lines of business, including retail banking, Corporate & Institutional Banking and asset management. Byrd is also responsible for PNC’s local sponsorship and philanthropic efforts.

Cleo Battle is the President and CEO of Louisville Tourism. He has worked in the hospitality industry for over 35 years. Prior to coming to Louisville, he spent 12 years as Vice President of Sales & Services of the Richmond Convention & Visitors Bureau in Richmond, VA. He held the positions of Director of Sales and Sales Manager at the Richmond CVB.

Lance Mann is an Assurance Director and Louisville Market Leader at Dean Dorton with over 20 years of experience delivering assurance, risk management, internal audit, and business advisory services across a diverse range of industries—including healthcare, higher education, manufacturing, construction, and real estate.

Henry Snyder is the COO & CFO of One Louisville. Henry has worked across economic development, strategy, finance, and operations — as Director of Finance at Churchill Downs Racetrack, Chief of Staff at a Boston-based family office, and as a summer associate with the Louisville Economic Development Alliance during his MBA. Henry completed his MBA at Harvard Business School in May 2026.

Julie Howell, Louisville Sports Commission – May 14, 2026

Julie Howell joined Louisville Sports Commission in Sept. 2009. During her time as Chief Revenue Officer with the Sports Commission, Howell has increased the number of companies supporting the organization from 10 to more than 250, leading to a 750% increase in annual contributed revenue.

There were also several featured guests who met with attendees at Noble Funk Brewing Company on May 14, 2026. Those featured guests included:

Simon Bird is the interim head coach for Louisville City FC. Bird joined the LouCity first team as an assistant coach in 2021 after working as director of the LouCity Academy. He starred at the University of Louisville from 2001-04 before playing professionally in England.

Lauren Milliet is Racing Louisville FC’s vice-captain and all-time leader in appearances. In April 2025, she became the first player in NWSL history to log 100 consecutive matches for one club. She is the only player remaining from the club’s inaugural 2021 roster.

James Breeding is an NCAA college basketball official. He works primarily in the Big East, SEC, Big Ten and Big 12 conferences. He was worked the past 17 NCAA Tournaments, including five Final Four assignments.

Jo Chubb is an assistant coach for Racing Louisville FC. She was previously the head women’s soccer coach at Coastal Carolina University and played professionally in England.

Alfred Smith is an NCAA college basketball official. He officiates college basketball for the Big Ten, Mountain West and other conferences. He’s officiated several NCAA Tournaments.

Josh Jones is a defender for Louisville City FC, appearing in 20 matches as a rookie in 2025. He starred at the University of Louisville and was selected 47th overall in the MLS SuperDraft in 2023, but opted to return to UofL.

 

Mayor Craig Greenberg – Feb. 5, 2026

Craig Greenberg is the 51st Mayor of Louisville, Kentucky. A proud Louisvillian, Mayor Greenberg brings a lifelong commitment to public service and innovation. He is committed to moving Louisville in a new direction by focusing on key priorities that support the values of local families.

Mayor Greenberg spoke to young professionals at Angel’s Envy in downtown Louisville on Feb. 5, 2026.