--Award given to two high profile advocates for diversity and inclusion—

Louisville, KY – The Louisville Urban League is bestowing its highest honor, the Arthur M. Walters “Champion of Diversity Award,” to two recipients at its annual Diversity Soirée & Awards Gala on Saturday, May 21. Receiving the award are Jim Host and the late Reverend Louis Coleman. The black-tie optional event, presented by Fifth Third Bank, begins at 6:00 PM and will be held in the Louisville Marriott Downtown Ballroom. Horseshoe Southern Indiana is a supporting sponsor of the evening.

Each honoree exemplifies the award’s high standards for selection, but in uniquely different ways. Jim Host has a long and distinguished history of public service in Kentucky and most recently for his work as Chairman of the Louisville Arena Authority. His attention and dedication to the hiring of local minorities and women in all phases of the arena project allowed it to meet and surpass its goals and set an example for future projects.

The late Reverend Louis Coleman, founder of the Justice Resource Center, was a champion for diversity and inclusion his entire life and was recognized as one of the community’s most vocal civil rights leaders. He played an integral role in breaking down barriers to equal opportunity for minorities, and he helped recruit minorities and women who ultimately worked on the arena project. Rev. Coleman died in the summer of 2008, but his work, including the promotion of diversity, continues today.

In addition to recognizing award recipients, the annual soirée will celebrate the Louisville Urban League’s 90th anniversary with music, entertainment and cuisine. Featured at this year’s event will be the Jerry Tolson Orchestra.

Tickets are $200 each or $2,000 for a table of ten. Proceeds from the evening help the Louisville Urban League to create economically stable families and successful school-aged children. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (502) 566-3417. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.lul.org.