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Join the experts at The Learning Collaborative for a lively discussion with our panelists exploring the evolving landscape of Bourbon business and policy. Enjoy sampling limited edition Bourbon, provided by our panelist Les Fugate, while discussing with Bourbon business leaders and policy experts key regulatory trends, market dynamics, and the impact of legislation on Bourbon production and distribution. The conversation will highlight the balance between tradition and innovation, as well as the role of Bourbon in local and global economies. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how policy decisions shape the future of this iconic American spirit.

Tickets are $20

Must be at least 21 years of age to attend.

Speakers Biographies:

Adam Johnson '97 (moderator) is the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s Vice President of State Relations and has seen the passion for Bourbon grow from a local phenomenon to a global sensation. In addition to Adam’s knowledge on Bourbon-related state and federal policies, his expertise also includes the understanding of the Bourbon business and the reasoning behind brands having diversity in their available products.

Sara Osborne '05 (panelist) has been with MML&K Government Solutions since 2013. Her lobbying portfolio includes the KY Distillers’ Association, the KY Travel Industry Association, and VisitLEX, all of which have interest in a thriving KY Bourbon industry. One of Sara’s favorite Bourbon efforts was bringing together multiple government agencies to ensure Bourbon could be utilized by health providers as hand sanitizer during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Les Fugate '02 (panelist) is the Vice President Director, Public Affairs, U.S. State and Local, Canada, and Latin America for the Brown-Forman Corporation. Proudly headquartered in Louisville, KY, the Brown-Forman Corporation is the largest American-headquartered spirits company and among the largest global spirits companies. Les directs the public policy and outreach efforts for Brown-Forman across those regions.