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My LWC Story

After decades of decline, KFC, once considered a tired legacy brand, has returned to pop culture thanks to the efforts of LWC alumna, Lori Riddle Eberenz.

When Eberenz joined KFC she was charged with reigniting the KFC brand. Her breakthrough PR initiatives generated a boost to the brand’s identity and the result was 11 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth after decades of loss. Her work also landed her on the PRWeek: 40 Under 40 2017 list of public relations professionals under the age of 40 who are “demonstrating innovative thinking, strong determination and results that indicate a long and successful career.”

This comes as no surprise to those who knew Eberenz as a student at LWC. She served in various leadership roles and was named a John B. Begley Scholar, the institution’s highest merit scholarship. Eberenz also found time to work off-campus as a part-time reporter at a local paper, as well as, complete a public relations internship in London, England as part of LWC’s study abroad program.

Eberenz earned a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri School of Journalism. Her 13-year public relations career began with two of Louisville’s premier marketing and communication agencies -- Guthrie Mayes Public Relations and Bandy Carroll Hellige Advertising. She has received dozens of awards for innovative and effective work in the communication field.

Eberenz and her husband, Josh, have two daughters - Julia and Hannah. Active in her community, Eberenz lends her time to organizations close to her heart. She has served as a member of the board of directors for the Friends of the Louisville Zoo.