“The combination of love, grief, and gratitude led to the creation of StoryFest”

— Maryanne Elliott, Founder

Our Origin Story

StoryFest Louisville was born from a simple, powerful belief: that stories can change everything. They can shift perspectives, inspire communities, and illuminate the path toward a better, more connected future.

The idea took root as part of The Tommy Elliott Fund, created by Maryanne Elliott in memory of her husband, Tommy—whose life was defined by civic leadership and an unwavering commitment to community. The Fund honors that legacy by investing in the people who power Louisville’s nonprofit sector, helping them lead with heart, resilience, and purpose.

From that mission, StoryFest Louisville emerged.

This initiative gives nonprofit leaders the space and support to uncover the human stories behind their work—stories that build trust, mobilize supporters, and help organizations thrive.

In 2025, the first StoryFest Louisville cohort took the stage. The event was held on April 10—the second anniversary of the Old National Bank shooting that claimed Tommy’s life. That date was no coincidence. It was a deliberate choice to transform a day of sorrow into an evening of solidarity, storytelling, and strength.

StoryFest Louisville continues in that spirit—shaped by grief, grounded in love for Louisville, and powered by the voices of those working every day to make it better. Want to be part of this story?

Want to be part of this story?

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Our Process

  • Shape the Story

    Leaders uncover a mission-rooted story and, with coaching and peer support, craft it into a narrative that inspires hearts and minds.

  • Share the Stage

    Each leader steps into the spotlight at a live event before hundreds, with one top storyteller recognized and all receive grant funding.

  • Extend the Impact

    Leaders carry their story forward—using it with funders, boards, and communities to drive lasting influence and growth.

What story has shaped your life’s work? Who helped you find it?

Our People

Maryanne Elliott

Maryanne Elliott, whose husband Tommy died in the April 2023 shooting, is the founder of the Tommy Elliott Fund and StoryFest. Committed to bringing hope and light in the face of darkness, she believes in the power of resilience and the idea that our stories are always evolving.

Founding Board of Directors

This group brings diverse experience across public service, philanthropy, storytelling, and community leadership:

  • Dr. Muhammad Babar

  • Ceci Conway Boden

  • John Y. Brown, III

  • Mayor Greg Fischer

  • Leslie Geoghegan

  • Graham Shelby

  • Nicole Yates

Storyteller Spotlight:
Michelle Black White

Executive Director, Brightside Foundation

“Participating in StoryFest opened my eyes to the power of personal storytelling to increase the impact of the work I do in the community.”

On the StoryFest stage, Michelle shared how, even in the face of tragedy, she discovered the power of looking for the bright side. Her story reminded the audience that resilience and optimism can fuel change.

Since StoryFest, Michelle has leaned into storytelling as a leadership tool. By framing Brightside’s mission through story, Michelle has been able to engage new funding sources and volunteers— tangible support that is helping make Louisville’s neighborhoods cleaner, greener, and more beautiful.

Want to see how storytelling drives change?

Read Our 2025 Recap →

Ready to help amplify Louisville’s changemakers?

Whether you’re a funder, a nonprofit leader, or a neighbor who believes in the power of story—we invite you to join us.