LOUISVILLE, Ky. (July 1, 2025) — Sam Draut is the Young Professionals Association of Louisville’s new president.
Draut is an award-winning journalist who is a digital producer and reporter at WDRB News. After serving as President-Elect for the past year, Draut will serve as YPAL’s president from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
“YPAL is ready to capitalize on the momentum created by the leadership of numerous great presidents and boards to be an impactful organization in Louisville,” Draut said. “Whether it’s professional development, civic engagement, supporting local businesses or creating a sense of belonging, YPAL is equipped to continue to be an organization that provides opportunities for young professionals around the city.”
As president, Draut will lead a 20-member board of directors. The board, which includes 12 returning members and eight newcomers, is composed of young professionals representing a broad range of industries, experiences and backgrounds.
“Everyone on the board brings a valuable perspective and a passion for the city of Louisville,” Draut said. “We want to innovate, advance and amplify YPAL’s mission to create a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant community for all young professionals.”
Earlier this year, YPAL announced its transition from a 501(c)(6) organization to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. The shift allows YPAL to align more clearly with its mission of service, leadership development and community engagement, along with expanding its impact and elevating the nonprofit’s role as a civic partner in Louisville.
“We want YPAL to have an expanded presence within the community and connect with more local nonprofits that are doing great work around Louisville,” Draut said. “Young professionals are eager to leave a lasting impact on their city.”
While YPAL plans to connect externally with more community groups, Draut said the organization’s success comes from strong internal collaboration amongst talented young professionals.
“We move forward as an organization because of the impressive collaboration between an excellent executive director Grace Huneck and her leadership, a tremendous board of directors and a devoted team of ambassadors, along with a membership base that deeply cares for Louisville,” Draut said. “There are so many people who lead and live out YPAL’s mission.”
Beyond his role at WDRB News and YPAL, Draut also serves on Metro United Way’s board of directors and teaches a sports journalism class at the University of Louisville’s Department of Communications. Draut is a graduate from the College of Business at the University of Louisville.
Now with more than 1,200 current members, YPAL was founded in 1999 to attract and retain young talent in Louisville. YPAL’s mission is to create a vibrant and welcoming young community in Greater Louisville by connecting, engaging and developing young professionals.
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