When Derby season rolls around in Louisville, there is an unmistakable buzz in the air, one filled with excitement, tradition, and a whole lot of heart. Helping bring that magic to life each year is our very own neighbor, Vicki Rogers.

Vicki has been serving as a Derby Ambassador to celebrities since 2021, and if you ask anyone who knows her, it is a role she was made for. Warm, welcoming, and full of energy, Vicki plays an important part in creating unforgettable experiences for visitors during one of the city’s most iconic celebrations.

As a Derby Ambassador, Vicki’s mission is simple but meaningful: make every guest feel fabulous. During both the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, she volunteers her time at Churchill Downs, escorting guests and ensuring they feel welcomed, celebrated, and immersed in the Derby experience from the moment they arrive.

Now, the tradition has become even more special. Vicki’s partner, Tom Menendez, has joined her as a Derby Ambassador, making it a shared experience they both truly enjoy.

Together, Vicki and Tom embrace everything the Derby represents: hospitality, excitement, and a deep love for Louisville. Whether they are guiding guests through Churchill Downs or sharing stories about Derby traditions, their goal is to give visitors a genuine taste of what makes this event so unforgettable.

For them, it is more than just a volunteer role. It is about connection. It is about showing people, many of whom are visiting for the first time, what the Derby is really all about.

And while they are representing one of the biggest events in the country, they are also representing something even closer to home, our community.

As Derby season approaches, we are proud to know that a friendly, familiar face will be there helping others experience the magic. Or, in this case, two familiar faces.

Let's raise our glasses to Vicki Rogers and Tom Menendez, sharing their Derby spirit and making every guest feel like part of the celebration.