LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Rachel Greenberg, Louisville’s first lady, has had a busy year championing causes close to her heart, with a particular focus on education, volunteerism, and community engagement. Known for her deep passion for children’s literacy and her commitment to giving back, Greenberg has made an indelible mark on local schools, organizations, and initiatives across the city.
In a tradition that has become a hallmark of her weekly routine, Greenberg spends at least one day each week visiting schools, reading to students, and interacting with the next generation of leaders. Last Wednesday, she kicked off her day at Dunn Elementary School, a place that holds special significance for her family, as it is where her husband, Mayor Craig Greenberg, attended school as a child.
“I’m an educator at heart, so I love being with students,” Greenberg shared. “I love learning from kids. I’m a former JCPS school teacher, and I miss the classroom.”
Greenberg’s educational journey is not confined to the classroom. In recent months, she has visited 44 schools throughout Louisville, from the west end to the east, connecting with thousands of students. Her goal is to inspire a love of reading and to hear the perspectives of young people, regardless of where they live or go to school.
“The students say very similar things whether I’m in Valley Station, PRP, or Eastern High School,” Greenberg remarked. “But I love hearing their perspectives and ideas.”
As a former teacher, Greenberg is deeply committed to addressing the critical role literacy plays in a child’s future. She frequently highlights the troubling connection between third-grade literacy rates and future incarceration rates, believing that early literacy can be a powerful tool in shaping a child’s trajectory.
“It’s not just what I think, it’s what the data shows,” Greenberg emphasized. “Third-grade literacy rates are often a predictor of future incarceration, and that’s something we need to change.”
This dedication to educational equity drives Greenberg’s involvement in several programs, such as Thrive by 5 Louisville and Bezos Academy, both of which are focused on improving early childhood education. She has also been instrumental in launching the Youth Ambassadors Leading Louisville (Y’ALL) program, an initiative aimed at fostering leadership skills in high school students.
“We want engagement,” Greenberg explained. “We want to provide opportunities for kids to make healthy choices and become leaders in our community.”
The first Y’ALL program graduation is approaching, and Greenberg is excited to witness the tangible impact the program is already having on the youth in the community.
Outside of her work with schools, Greenberg is an active volunteer, giving her time to local organizations like the Family Scholar House. There, she works closely with executive director Cathe Dykstra, whom she calls a mentor and admires for the work the organization does to support families overcoming challenges.
“I’m amazed by the work Kathy is doing. It’s changing lives and shaping the future for entire generations,” Greenberg said. “It’s one of my favorite places to volunteer.”
As first lady, Greenberg’s role extends beyond ceremonial duties. Her unwavering commitment to the city of Louisville and its residents is evident in her consistent efforts to support local causes, particularly those that aim to uplift children and families. Whether it’s through literacy programs, youth leadership initiatives, or volunteerism, Greenberg’s influence is far-reaching.
Reflecting on the importance of giving back, Greenberg shared a simple but powerful message: “Every organization is looking for time, talent, and treasure. You give what you can—whether it’s time, talent, or treasure—and you’ll always get more in return.”
For Greenberg, being first lady is not just a title, but a call to service. “If someone asks me to help, I’m probably going to say yes,” she said. “It means something to me.”
Her dedication to volunteerism, education, and community service continues to make a lasting impact on Louisville, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.
