Event Services
Lindsay Brough – Crushed Ice Catering
Mary Burks – The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts
Sarah Kolze – FSA Management Group
Nancy Thomas – Andy Frain Services
Jessica Walker – Encore Global
Samantha Ward – PRA Business Events
Rose Award Voting will begin at 12:00 am on October 8th and end on October 16th at midnight on louisvilleroseawards.com.
Only one vote in each of the 11 categories will be counted from an individual email address.
Please share on your social media, louisvilleroseawards.com, and encourage your family & to read about these inspiring finalists and vote!
Lindsay Brough
Crushed Ice Catering
Lindsay Brough leads with heart, adaptability, and a gift for connecting with everyone she meets. She takes time for one-on-one conversations with staff, making sure they feel heard and supported, and she’s the first to embrace change, guiding her team with clarity and confidence. Whether she’s triple-checking event details or rallying the team through busy seasons, Lindsay’s positivity is a constant—she believes in each of us, and makes sure we believe in ourselves. She’s hands-on with both front and back of house, never asking anyone to do a job she wouldn’t do herself. Her community spirit shines through her work with KY Harvest and flood clean-up efforts, and she encourages our culinary team to donate leftovers to those in need. Lindsay is a true embodiment of Louisville’s spirit—welcoming, resilient, and full of light.
Mary Burks
The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts
Mary Burks brings unmatched dedication and heart to every event she touches. Over the past four years, she’s built lasting relationships with clients by listening closely, advocating for their needs, and delivering seamless experiences. Her leadership during KPA’s “Thunder Over Louisville” viewing event showcases her talent—coordinating vendors, entertainment, and activities with precision, turning a high-profile celebration into a joyful, community-driven success. Mary also creates thoughtful local guides for visiting artists and organizes seasonal donation drives, using her role to uplift Louisville in meaningful ways. Whether she’s planning logistics or strengthening community ties, Mary leads with empathy, excellence, and a deep love for the city she calls home.
Sarah Kolze
FSA Management Group
Sarah’s passion for Kentucky and hospitality shines through in everything she does. As the lead planner for the Bourbon Classic, she brings people from across the country to Louisville each year to celebrate the state’s rich bourbon heritage—not just with great food and drink, but with immersive experiences that showcase the heart of Kentucky. She’s meticulous about every detail, from thoughtful menu planning that accommodates all dietary needs to creating moments where guests feel truly welcomed and connected. Sarah’s work is driven by a deep love for her home state, and she uses each event as a platform to share its culture, charm, and community spirit. Her dedication inspires her team and leaves a lasting impression on everyone she encounters.
Nancy Thomas
Andy Frain Services
Nancy is the kind of leader who quietly transforms every moment into something exceptional. At the KFC Yum! Center, she consistently steps in wherever needed—no matter how challenging the situation—with warmth, professionalism, and a can-do attitude. Her presence sets the tone for the team, modeling grace under pressure and unwavering commitment to excellence. As part of Andy Frain Services, she lives the motto “Customer service is everyone’s job,” and she does it with heart. Nancy doesn’t just support her team—she inspires them, creating a welcoming environment that reflects the very best of Louisville’s spirit: hardworking, kind, and always ready to serve.
Jessica Walker
Encore Global
Jessica Walker is the trusted guide behind countless successful events, helping clients navigate the complexities of event technology with patience, warmth, and precision. As Sales Manager with Encore, she supports three of Louisville's most iconic venues, ensuring every event starts with a strong foundation. Jessica listens closely, crafts thoughtful solutions, and builds trust from the very first conversation—empowering operations teams to deliver seamless, memorable experiences. Her work has led to some of the highest customer satisfaction scores in the nation, but her impact goes far beyond numbers. Jessica brings heart to every interaction, representing Louisville with pride and professionalism, and proving that hospitality is as much about connection as it is about execution.
Samantha Ward
PRA Business Events
Samantha Ward has quickly become the go-to expert at PRA Louisville, known for her deep local knowledge and unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. Her passion for the city shines through in every detail—from touring venues and building vendor relationships to securing hard-to-get bourbon trail tickets at 12:30 AM just to fulfill a client’s dream itinerary. When plans shift, Sam stays calm and solutions-focused, using her network and creativity to deliver even better outcomes. She’s built lasting trust with local partners and clients alike, striking the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. Samantha doesn’t just plan events—she brings Louisville to life for every guest she serves.