Governor and First Lady Bevin Host Luncheon To Announce Derby Poster Contest Winner

Gov. Matt Bevin and First Lady Glenna Bevin hosted a luncheon at the Governor’s Mansion on Saturday, March 11 for the finalists of the First Lady’s Derby Poster Contest.

Early this year, the First Lady’s Office offered an opportunity for high school students to design the 2017 Kentucky Derby poster to displayed in the Capitol. Typically, professionals have been chosen to create the annual poster. This year, students throughout the Commonwealth were invited to offer their own rendering of what they think Derby Day looks like. The deadline for submissions was Feb. 20.

Mrs. Bevin, along with help from the Bevin children, chose the finalists and the winner. Students submitted their artwork online anonymously. Once the finalists were selected, their names, ages and schools were revealed. The finalists were presented with a personalized plaque to honor their submitted artwork.

“Matt and I want this to inspire students to be creative and encourage them to achieve their goals,” said Mrs. Bevin. “All of the finalist are winners! They are so incredibly talented, and they made the decision very difficult for me. It was such an honor to host these students and their guests. I had a wonderful time getting to know each of them.”

Jackson Penna, a junior at Pleasure Ridge Park High School in Louisville, was named the winner. He has received other awards and recognition for his artwork. Jackson plans to join the military following graduation.

The other finalists named were Anystin Conner, a freshman at Paul Blazer High School (Ashland); Olivia Nisbet, a senior at Pleasure Ridge Park High School; Vanessa Rodriguez, a senior at Bryan Station High School (Lexington); and Kaylee Thornsberry, a senior at Morgan County High School (West Liberty).