
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Cherilyn Martin | Louisville Urban League
(502) 808-1056 | [email protected]
N E W S R E L E A S E
March 11, 2026
Humana Signed On as Presenting Sponsor
of the 2026 Louisville Urban League Derby Gala
of the 2026 Louisville Urban League Derby Gala
The Louisville Urban League (LUL) is proud to announce that Humana Inc. has signed on as the Presenting Sponsor for the 2026 Louisville Urban League Derby Gala. This year’s event, themed “Rhythm of Revolution,” will take place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, serving as the premier kickoff to Kentucky Derby week.
“The Louisville Urban League embodies the spirit of community, connection, and collective progress,” said Carolyn Tandy, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer at Humana. “At Humana, we believe belonging is foundational to both health and humanity. This gala is more than an event — it’s a celebration of the people and partnerships that make Louisville stronger. We are proud to support a space where every voice is valued and every family feels seen.”
The partnership marks a significant milestone in a decades-long relationship between the two iconic Louisville institutions. By serving as the presenting sponsor, Humana deepens its commitment to the League’s mission of helping Black people and other marginalized populations achieve social and economic equality.
“Humana has been a steadfast ally in our work for years, and having them as our presenting sponsor this year feels like a natural evolution of our shared goals,” said Lyndon Pryor, President and CEO of the Louisville Urban League. “This isn’t just about a gala; it’s about a shared vision for a Louisville where everyone has the resources to thrive. Together, we are creating a ‘rhythm’ of progress that resonates across our entire community.”
The relationship between Humana and the Louisville Urban League is built on tangible results. From developing an innovative community health worker (CHW) program that addresses barriers and connects people in need with resources, to collaborative efforts that address the social determinants of health, the two organizations have consistently worked together to bridge the opportunity gap in the West End and beyond.
Humana’s commitment to the Derby Gala reflects their broader dedication to helping people achieve their best health and strengthening the communities it serves. Their focus on improving foundations such as housing stability, food security, and financial well-being aligns directly with the League’s mission and fuels the impact this event makes possible. With Humana’s support, the League can expand programs that simplify access to care and empower thousands of Louisville families – ensuring the Derby Gala is not only a celebration, but a catalyst for real, lasting change.
“Humana is proud to invest in the Louisville Urban League’s Derby Gala because its impact reaches far beyond one night — it strengthens the economic and social fabric of our hometown,” said Jim Moore, Senior Vice President, Insurance Customer and Payments Operations at Humana. “When organizations like the Urban League thrive, Louisville thrives. This partnership reflects our commitment to the people, neighborhoods, and local institutions that make our city a vibrant place to live and work.”
The 2026 Derby Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening of “Black Excellence” and advocacy. This year’s entertainment lineup features:
Common: Legendary Academy and Grammy Award-winning hip-hop artist and activist.
Tank and the Bangas: The genre-defying, funk-soul powerhouse group.
In addition to the world-class performances, the gala will feature a live auction and the recognition of community leaders who have made significant strides in equity and inclusion. Proceeds from the event will directly fund the League’s work across its pillars of Jobs, Justice, Education, Health, Housing, and Entrepreneurship.
“The Rhythm of Revolution is more than a theme; it’s the sonic shift we are creating right here in Louisville, made possible by the steadfast commitment of our Presenting Sponsor, Humana,” Pryor concluded. “Every ticket purchased, and every dollar raised at the Derby Gala, is an investment in the critical work of the League. We invite everyone to join us in making this revolution a reality for every family we serve.”
For more information on the 2026 Louisville Urban League Derby Gala, or to purchase tickets and tables, please visit https://bit.ly/DerbyGala26.
About the Louisville Urban League
The Louisville Urban League assists Black people and those at the margins in attaining social and economic equality and stability through direct services and advocacy. For more information, visit lul.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
About Humana
Humana (NYSE:HUM) is a leading U.S. healthcare company. Through our Humana insurance services and our CenterWell healthcare services, we make it easier for the millions of people we serve to achieve their best health – delivering the care and service they need, when they need it. These efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare and Medicaid, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large. Learn more about what we offer at Humana.com and at CenterWell.com.
