Andy Beshear grew up in Fayette, Franklin, and Clark counties and graduated from Henry Clay High School.
He is the son of Steve and Jane Beshear, the 61st Governor and first lady.
Along the way, they instilled in Andy the teachings of Andy’s grandfather, a Baptist minister from Dawson Springs, Kentucky, including the values of family, faith, and public service.
Andy graduated magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia School of Law, where he was a Dean’s Scholar.
After law school, Andy worked at an international law firm based in Washington, D.C., where he met his wife, Britainy.
After marrying, Andy and Britainy moved back to Kentucky.
Andy continued his legal career at Stites & Harbison, where he was recognized as the nation’s top consumer lawyer by Lawyer Monthly and received many accolades for his litigation work.
Andy also tailored his practice to represent non-profit youth organizations, helping implement background checks and other protective measures to keep kids safe.
The values Andy learned growing up, his experience as a private practice attorney, and his commitment to his community led him to run for and become Attorney General in 2016.
As Kentucky’s 50th Attorney General, Andy fought tirelessly for our families. He fought against the opioid epidemic, suing opioid manufacturers and distributors that flooded our state with pills, creating the Kentucky Opioid Disposal Program to remove unused opioids from Kentuckians’ medicine cabinets, and investigating and prosecuting rogue doctors and drug traffickers.
Under Andy Beshear, the Office of the Attorney General arrested record numbers of child predators to protect the Commonwealth’s children and trained thousands of Kentuckians to recognize, report, and prevent child abuse and human trafficking. Andy worked diligently to protect seniors from scams, fraud, and physical and financial abuse. He was a leader in the fight to protect access to health care and to manage the rising costs of prescription drugs.
As Attorney General, Andy made it a top priority of his office to end the state’s rape kit backlog, seeking justice for victims of sexual assault. Through settlements, he secured millions of dollars in funding to get kits tested and to make much-needed upgrades at the Kentucky State Police crime lab. He launched one of the nation’s preeminent cold case units to investigate and prosecute cases. As a result, Kentucky is one of only a few states to have tested every backlogged kit.
Andy Beshear was an independent voice as Attorney General and fought to uphold Kentucky’s constitution and laws. He stood up for higher education and hard-earned pensions.
He knows that when state government operates in secret, it is not working for the people, so Andy is committed to an open, transparent, and inclusive administration.
Andy and Britainy have two young children, Will and Lila. The family attends Beargrass Christian Church, where Andy and Britainy serve as deacons and volunteer with several local organizations.
Ian Rapoport is an American sportswriter, pundit, and television analyst primarily covering the National Football League (NFL).
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport has covered the league since 2009, previously serving as Patriots beat reporter for the Boston Herald for 3 seasons.
Now based in New York City, he also has covered the Alabama Crimson Tide for the Birmingham News and Mississippi State for the Jackson Clarion-Ledger.
Danielle is the reigning Miss Earth USA and will compete for the Miss Earth title later this fall in Vietnam.
With such a strong sense of compassion for service, animals, and the Earth-She is currently a global ambassador with Wands for Wildlife to use beauty tools to provide medical aid to wildlife animals.
She is also an ambassador with #MeatlessMonday, promoting that trying a plant-based lifestyle even just once a week can positively impact the Planet.
With all her service, Danielle is ranked as a “Kentucky Colonel” in her home state, the highest honor awarded by the Kentucky Governor.
Danielle graduated from Eastern Kentucky University Cum Laude with a degree in Public Relations.
She was a Maroon Scholar recipient and made the Deans and Presidents list.
Since graduating college, she has started her own business as a makeup artist and even recently came out with her makeup collection in collaboration with the Ladycode Shop.
The Miss Teen Earth pageant is an international beauty and environmental-themed spectacle focusing on environmental issues and advocacy. It’s one of the beauty contests emphasizing social responsibility and promoting eco-friendly practices.
This pageant is typically open to young female participants from various countries who are passionate about environmental conservation and are willing to use the platform to promote sustainability and raise awareness about the pressing ecological issues facing the planet.
Contestants often engage in activities and challenges that highlight their commitment to environmental causes, and they are judged not only on traditional pageant criteria such as poise and beauty but also on their knowledge of and commitment to environmental matters.
The pageant serves as a means to educate and involve younger generations in environmental stewardship and encourages them to take an active role in promoting ecological sustainability.
The winners of the Miss Teen Earth pageant may become ambassadors for various environmental initiatives and often participate in events and programs that aim to inspire action toward a more sustainable future.
Mrs. Eden Bridgeman Sklenar has been owner, Chairwoman, and now CEO of EBONY and JET and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Manna Inc since 2017. Mrs. Bridgeman Sklenar has been with Manna Inc since 2009. She served as Regional Marketing Manager for 2 years before taking a leave of absence to complete her MBA in Entrepreneurship at Loyola University Chicago-Quinlan School of Business in 2011. She received induction into The International Business Honor Society in 2013 after her MBA program.
After earning her MBA, Mrs. Bridgeman Sklenar transitioned to Director of Marketing for ERJ Dining, LLC dba Chili’s Grill & Bar. Since becoming CMO of Manna Inc, Mrs. Bridgeman Sklenar has overseen the marketing department and all company brands’ local store marketing engagement. Mrs. Bridgeman Sklenar serves as an ambassador for Manna Inc to the Women’s Food Service Forum (WFF) by bringing all of the benefits of WFF membership to life for Manna Inc.
Mrs. Bridgeman Sklenar has served as a Board Member and the Program Director for the Bridgeman Charitable Group since 2017, which produces The Trifecta—an annual Derby-eve black-tie celebrity charity gala in Louisville, Kentucky. Her hobbies include traveling and spending time with her family and friends. She is also a Board Member of The Speed Museum, Kentucky Derby Museum, Oxmoor Farm Foundation, Task Force for the Fund Arts, and the Louisville Ballet.
Eden was born in Los Angeles, CA, but was raised in Louisville, KY, where she attended Male High School and the University of Louisville. She is married to Greg Sklenar and is the daughter of Ulysses L. and Doris Bridgeman. Eden has two brothers, Justin and Ryan Bridgeman.
Eden Bridgeman Sklenar is known as one of the daughters of Junior Bridgeman, a former NBA player who became an extremely successful entrepreneur, notably in the fast-food industry. The Bridgeman family is well-respected in both the business and philanthropic circles.
Eden Bridgeman Sklenar has been involved in various aspects of the family business and is recognized for her roles in philanthropic endeavors and events. One of the significant events she’s been associated with is the Trifecta Gala, an annual charity event held during the Kentucky Derby weekend. Given your interest in the Kentucky Derby, as mentioned in your profile, this connection might be particularly relevant.
The Trifecta Gala has historically benefited several charities, focusing on organizations that support underserved communities, particularly in education, sports, and health.
Starlet Marie Jones Lugo (born March 24, 1962), better known as Star Jones, is an American lawyer, journalist, television personality, fashion designer, author, and women’s and diversity advocate.
She is best known as one of the first co-hosts on The View’s ABC morning talk show, which she appeared on for nine seasons from 1997-98 through 2005-06.
She was also one of sixteen contestants of the fourth installment of The Celebrity Apprentice in 2011, coming in fifth place.
Star Jones is a well-known American television personality, lawyer, journalist, and author. Here’s an in-depth overview of her career and achievements:
Star Jones:
Star Jones’s career has seen a blend of legal expertise and media presence, making her a recognized figure in American television and legal circles.
Some of you helped cheer Cheryl on to become a Champion on Hollywood’s first “reality” television show—American Gladiators!
Also, her extraordinary passion for collecting Wizard of Oz memorabilia is second to none!
Ever since Cheryl’s mother read The Wizard of Oz to her as a child, she shared her mother’s passion for “all things Oz.”
Her collection of over 3,500 Oz items—perhaps the world’s most significant—was the premier exhibit at the Judy Garland Museum for 5 years.
Still, when her father taught her to stand on her head, Cheryl began seeing the world differently.
So it comes as little surprise that this media personality & national fitness expert set out to address the USA’s adolescent obesity epidemic as Exec. Producer, Creator, and star of the 13-x national award-winning children’s fitness film program—Adventures in Oz Cheryl- Combining her creative abilities, perseverance, & faith with her love for kids, exercise, &, of course, all things Oz!
Today, Cheryl captures audiences’ hearts & minds as she magically transports them on her eclectic entrepreneurial & spiritual journey from her backyard in Hobart to Hollywood, The Home Shopping Network & more!
Some of the ways Cheryl has inspired & served her communities as a College Professor at the Univ. of Indy, Radio Show Host of Community Link, Inspirational Speaker, and Spiritual Director.
Folks who know her endearingly call her “the bodybuilder with a brain, a heart, & courage!”
MG Lamberton was commissioned in the Infantry upon graduation from the University of KY. ROTC Program in 1986.
His 1st assignment was with the 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.
During his time in the 82nd, he served as Mortar Platoon Leader, HHC, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, then Rifle Company Executive Officer, Company C, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, & HHC, 1st Brigade Staff.
His assignments with the 82nd included Operation Golden Pheasant, Operation Just Cause & Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.
After completing the Infantry Officer Advanced Course (IOAC), MG Lamberton served as a staff officer with the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry, 2nd Infantry Division, Korea continuing his time in the 506th as the Bravo Rifle Company Commander.
Following his time on Active Duty, he moved back to Louisville, KY, and pursued a successful career in finance while serving as a traditional guardsman with the Kentucky National Guard. After assignments during Operation Noble Eagle & Operation Iraqi Freedom, he transitioned to a full-time role with the Kentucky Army National Guard.
For the National Guard, he served in many positions from the 149th Brigade,35th Infantry Div., as Commander of 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry, 42nd Infantry Division, as Director of Military Support, as Director of HR, & as Director of Logistics.
After his 2009 completion of the Army War College, he returned to KY, serving in multiple State HQ positions, including Commander, 238th Regional Training Institute & the Wendell H. Ford Regional Training Facility in Greenville, KY.
His time in the KY. Ntnl. Guard culminated in being appointed the 53rd Adjutant General of the Commonwealth of KY. by Gov. Andrew Beshear on December 10, 2019.
He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Kentucky, & a Master in Strategic Studies from the U. S. Army War College.
He & his wife Karen, a retired nurse practitioner, are the proud parents to Claire, Philip, & 2 grandchildren (Celia & Forest).
Hal’s interests & focus are his family, especially the grandkids, reading & flying, and his & Karen’s participation in the community & military.
She is a nonprofit fundraising executive with > 20 years of experience & proven results. She currently serves as SR. VP/Chief Development & Marketing Officer for Hosparus Health-the largest nonprofit in Louisville, KY. Under her leadership, the organization completed a $29 million People of Compassion comprehensive campaign & throughout her career, Tawanda has raised over $200 million!
Most recently, Tawanda assumed leadership over the marketing department overseeing the Hosparus Health brand & strategic messaging. Before joining Hosparus, Tawanda served as Executive Director at the American Red Cross Bluegrass Chapter in Lexington, KY. These positions, combined with experiences at the University of KY, Norton Healthcare, CHI Saint Joseph, Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center, & Metro United Way, provide her with a wide range of nonprofit leadership & philanthropic expertise.
If that wasn’t enough, Tawanda earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Louisville & a Master’s in Business Communication from Spalding University. In addition to fundraising & marketing, she excels at strategic planning, public speaking, leadership development, board development & problem-solving. Past boards include Invol, Transit Authority of River City (TARC), Greater Louisville Inc, Leadership Louisville Center, Louisville Urban League, Lexington Children’s Theatre, Commerce Lexington, and Lexington Transit Authority.
Tawanda’s past recognition includes Distinguished Leader in Leadership Lexington & Top 40 under 40 awards. She is also a 2021 Graduate of Leadership Louisville’s Bingham Fellows, & as of this MoxieTalk, she serves on TARC’s & Family Scholar House’s board. She lives in Louisville with her husband, Dr. Adarrell Owsley & 2 children, Raven & Ayden.
In the beginning, long before he was born. His parents were both devout fundamentalist Christians, & his maternal grandparents raised his Mother Methodist until they converted to fundamentalist Christianity & his paternal grandmother was a fundamentalist Christian & his grandpa eventually converted. Andrew’s parents met at Hyles Anderson College in the late 1980s; Hyles Anderson is known for being a strict fundamentalist school.
His Father studied to be a pastor & his mother was going to be an English teacher. They got married in the early 90s & were excited to have children but had difficulties & after contemplating adoption, they prayed about it until it finally happened! They had 3 boys & Andrew was the middle child. They interpreted the birth of their children as a prayer answered & dedicated their children to the God of Christianity. Homeschooling was popular among fundamentalist Christians because of the separation from the world, outside influences, & TOTAL control of their children’s lives.
Andrew grew up in the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement known as the IFB cult at Gospel Light Baptist Church in Walkertown, NC, pastored by Bobby Robertson until 2018. Robertson was called “America’s Pastor,” & Gospel Light is one of the larger IFB churches in the U.S. It is known for its extensive bus ministry, bringing in thousands of kids every week.
Andrew idolized Robertson & acted like he was Jesus Christ. The most psychologically damaging was the hateful sermons on the LGBTQ+ community because Andrew is openly gay & growing up gay in fundamentalist Christianity is unacceptable because they are considered “perverts that go around raping people & hurting children.” Adding to this trauma was being a child sexual assault survivor and keeping this a secret; he felt shame for his assault & hearing how he deserved nothing good. Loving yourself is difficult when you feel like the closest to you find you unacceptable & he was extremely hurt that the people who cared for him denied him healthcare.
His trust in his parents eroded & was forever destroyed, & he read books constantly to expand his mind & get rid of “black-and-white thinking.”
Today, Andrew is an influencer to bring awareness to religious trauma, & has shared his story on many podcasts; & as of this filming, he works for 1 of the world’s top cult experts, Rachel Bernstein & helps her with her social media marketing, for her podcast “IndoctriNation.”
Andrew is on a mission to pursue psychology to become a therapist & eventually, a psychologist by researching religious trauma & helping present & future survivors of spiritual abuse!
BGM is a movement dedicated to increasing math confidence, awareness, enthusiasm, identity, fluency, & persistence in children. BGM’s flagship product is the Black Girl MATHgic Box, the first and only monthly subscription box designed to increase math confidence & decrease math anxiety in girls on a 3rd-8th grade math level. Black Girl MATHgic has been featured in Forbes, Buzzfeed, BEYONCE.com, Black Enterprise, and more.
Brittany is also a math tutor and former GED Math Instructor & received her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Spelman College & her Master of Business Administration in Mrktg, Communication & Organizational Behavior from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon Univ. Brittany is a proud native of Detroit, where she lives with her husband & daughter.
Brittany Rhodes founded Black Girl MATHgic, a company focused on increasing math confidence and decreasing math anxiety among young Black girls. Black Girl MATHgic provides monthly subscription boxes to make math more relatable, understandable, and fun for its subscribers.
Here are some critical details about Brittany Rhodes and Black Girl MATHgic:
Born in Pakistan and raised in Southern California, & after only 9 months as Metro United Way’s Director of Major & Legacy Gifts, she rose to this position, having previously served as Director for Louisville Metro’s Office for Globalization-joining the mayor’s team with over 15 yrs. as an experienced leader & public servant from various roles like UPS’ Air Region Public Affairs & Communication Relations Supervisor where she was a liaison for the UPS Foundation; as well as Chief Academic Officer at Berea College; & other positions such as Middle School Math & Science teacher to Project Manager & Assistant Principal in public education.
Sabeen has overcome obstacles of integrating into a new country while balancing 2 different cultures simultaneously, a recurring theme in her life she observes.
Thus pledging to pay it forward by encouraging ALL people to succeed. Sabeen believes in empowering people to be part of the solution to challenges, teaching them to intentionally focus their energy on a positive direction, ensuring they make sensible choices, and thriving as trailblazers within their community. This enthusiasm led her to be recognized as Louisville’s Business First Top 20 People to Know in Education & the Workforce & recognized again by Louisville’s Business First for their Top 20 People to Know in Philanthropy.
Sabeen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Studies from CA. St. Univ. @ Long Beach, & a Master of Educ. degree in Ldrship & Admin. from the University of Louisville
Her dedication to the community & involvement with various boards, including the World Affairs Council & Fund for the Arts. Beyond her professional interests, she enjoys travel, playing board games with her husband, cooking international cuisine—& spending quality time with her teenage son.
Sabeen, from Pakistan to Southern California, to now the Commonwealth of KY.
Gwen Mooney is the President & CEO of Cave Hill Cemetery, a cemetery considered by PBS to be 1 of the world’s greatest cemeteries! In 2015, Gwen started as Pres./CEO of The Historic Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, KY. She is JUST its 6th leader in almost 200 yrs. & overseeing roughly 300 acres of the cemetery & its arboretum, as well as Cave Hill’s Invest. Corp. & the Heritage Foundation.
As if that didn’t keep her busy enough, Gwen is a licensed funeral Dir. & embalmer in Ohio & Kentucky. She has a Bachelor of Mortuary Science degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science & from 1999-2015, was Pres. & Managing Dir. of The Gwen Mooney Funeral Homes, associated with Sg. Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati. She has served as a Board member of the Intnl. Cemetery, Crematory & Funeral Assoc. (ICCFA), it’s Educational Fdtn. & Woman in Leadership Committee, as well as the KY. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Foundation.
In 2003, she was awarded (CCFE) status- a Certified Cemetery & Funeral Exec. Designation. Over a funeral career that has spanned multiple decades, she has spoken at many conventions & educational programs, including the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science & Memphis, TN.’s ICCFA Univ. Gwen states-“My lengthy funeral career has allowed me to serve many families with compassion & see the impact that outstanding services & attention to detail can make on a family. Keeping up with the changing trends in our industry has been something that I have paid close attention to, as well as attracting future woman leaders to the funeral industry”.
Gwen & her husband enjoy spending time at their homes in Harrison, OH. & Glenview, KY.
She loves to travel & spend time with their 3 children (Dustin, Gabrielle & Dalton) & 3 Granddaughters (Ella, Emmalyn & Elise).