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Karen Bickel, REBC

Employee Benefits Select Group Practice Leader

Karen Bickel is a licensed life and health agent in Indiana and Kentucky, who joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2006. Karen came from United Healthcare where she served as a Health Plan Installation Coordinator and an Account Service Consultant for large group accounts. Prior to United Healthcare, Karen worked at Aetna for 16 Years in the insurance benefits marketing department where she held various roles. She has over 34 years of knowledge in the employee benefits field. She is certified in the National Health Underwriters Consumer Driven Healthcare products. She is a member of the Association of Health Underwriters and its local chapter: The Greater Louisville Association of Health Underwriters. Within that organization, she is involved with volunteering on various committees.

contact info

karenbickel@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Kim Dennis

Personal Insurance Account Manager

Kim Dennis came to Sterling Thompson Company in 2014 with over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry.  She is extremely attentive to her client’s needs, and does everything she can to make sure their needs are not only met, but exceeded. Kim knows that no single solution is the right one for every customer, so she always takes a personalized approach to helping her clients with whatever their unique needs may be. 

Kim resides in southern Indiana with her husband Allan. She has 1 child and 3 step-children who have blessed her with 4 grandchildren. In her spare time she enjoys scary movies and playing with her Chihuahua, Sophie.

contact info

kimdennis@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Karen Lauyans, ACSR, CISR, CPIW

Personal Insurance Account Manager

Karen Lauyans started at Sterling Thompson Company in 2005 with an extensive background in the insurance industry, starting her career in 1982 while still in high school. Karen is client-focused and driven to understand their unique needs, working to find the most comprehensive coverage for them. She shows great attention to detail, and is extremely thorough in reviewing coverages for accuracy.

Karen has been married to her husband Kevin since 1985. She is a mother to a wonderful son and daughter, and has been blessed with two terrific grandchildren, who keep her busy when they are visiting or staying overnight. In her down time you will find her watching a variety of movies, working Sudoku or crossword puzzles and spending time with her mother.

contact info

karenlauyans@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Kevin S. Lavin, CIC

Senior Equine Risk Advisor

A Native of Louisville, Kevin grew up on Longfield Farm, and is the 4th generation member of his family to be involved in the horse industry. The Lavin Family has worked in and around the thoroughbred community for over 50 Years. His grandfather, A.W. “Doc” Lavin was a longtime racing official and racing secretary, while his father, Gary is a retired racetrack veterinarian, past president of the AAEP and a member of the Jockey Club.  His mother served two times on the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority.  After graduating from Centre College in 1987, he worked for Harris & Harris, a property and casualty insurance agency. He became a Certified Insurance Counselor in 1996 and then founded Lavin Insurance Services in 1997, which specialized in equine insurance. Kevin gives back to the equine community by serving on numerous boards.  His past and present directorships include Longfield Farm and Lavin Bloodstock Services, Thoroughbred Club of America, The Kentucky Derby Museum, Grayson Jockey Club Research Foundation, The Backside Learning Center and many others.  Kevin resides in Louisville Kentucky with his wife Amy and their three girls, Eleanor, Lulu, and Hattie.  He is a partner in Sterling Thompson Company and current Director of Equine Insurance at Sterling Thompson Equine.

contact info

kevinlavin@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.228.1600

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Kelly Nezbeth, AINS

Equine Insurance Account Manager

Kelly Nezbeth is a licensed Equine Insurance Account Manager at Sterling Thompson Company. Kelly comes to us with over 25 years of experience in the insurance industry and takes pride in the care that she gives to each of her clients. Building positive relationships has always been her passion. Although she is an avid Wildcats fan, Kelly received her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Louisville. Kelly also studied music in college and is a vocalist and a violinist. Kelly is originally from Middletown but currently lives in Crestwood with her children. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, movies, cooking, and concerts.  

contact info

kellynezbeth@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Kimberly Payne

Employee Benefits Account Manager

Kimberly Payne joined Sterling Thompson Company in August 2023 as an Employee Benefits Service Specialist. Prior to joining, she worked in the field of Intellectual Property Insurance. This experience allowed Kimberly to showcase her customer service skills. It also taught her how to be an integral member of a team working towards company goals and develop processes to assist with business growth and development. She hopes to transfer these skills to Sterling Thompson Company while serving her fellow associates.

Kimberly was raised in Illinois where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising. Since 2015, she has lived in Louisville, KY where she met her husband, Jeremy (who is in a constant beard growing competition with his twin, Jason). They have four children: Jayme, Kason, Aspyn, and Lindon. She enjoys spending the weekends with her family, traveling to new places (like everywhere the military sends her sister), and loves a good true crime podcast.

contact info

kimberlypayne@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Keith Thomas

Director of IT

Keith Thomas is a native of Louisville, KY. He graduated from Louisville Technical College with a degree in Computer Engineering Technology and has worked in IT for 30+ years. He has a passion for technology and electronics, making IT the perfect career choice. He has been with Sterling Thompson Company since 2007. He served as President of the local ASCNet chapter for 5 years. Keith is continually updating his IT education/knowledge to keep with current technology and software updates. He is happily married and has two children.

contact info

keiththomas@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Kevin Woodward

Vice President of Business Development

Kevin Woodward was born and raised in Louisville, attending St. Xavier High School. After graduating from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Communication, he obtained his Master’s degree from the University of Louisville while employed by General Electric. Before joining Sterling Thompson Company, Kevin was the Director of Advancement for the Catholic Education Foundation, impacting thousands of kids annually in the local community. He now serves as the Vice President of Business Development where he leads a team of advisors.  Kevin is a relationship driven individual who is most interested in providing clients with the best risk management services.

Kevin and his wife live in Prospect, Kentucky with their six children (Crew, Finn, Beau, Merritt, Townes, and Wells) and their dog, Teddy. He enjoys volunteering at Holy Spirit Parish and School Community, coaching youth sports, and spending time outdoors golfing, fishing, and walking.

contact info

kevinwoodward@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Leigh Anne Karnes

Business Insurance Account Manager

Leigh Anne joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2022 as a Business Insurance Account Manager. Her career in the insurance industry began in 2001 as a receptionist. Since then, she has gained experience in several areas of insurance, such as equine, bonds, administration, personal insurance, and business insurance. Leigh Anne’s experience in business insurance spans a wide range of industries. She obtained her Property and Casualty license in 2003 and received her CISR designation in 2018.    

Leigh Anne and her husband, Kevin, have three children and a son-in-law. She enjoys Sunday night dinners with her family and travelling with her husband.

contact info

leighannekarnes@sterlingthompson.com
office: 859.543.0050

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Lisa Brown

accounting service specialist

Lisa Brown joined Sterling Thompson Company in July 2006 as an Accounting Service Specialist. Working with numbers has always been her passion. She has been in the accounting field since 1997. She also handles the employee and agency licensing responsibilities.

Lisa graduated from North Bullitt High School and later attended Jefferson Community College. She married Barry Brown in May of 2003 and welcomed their son Trevor in 2004. She is an active member of St. Theresa Church. Lisa is very family oriented and spends all of her free time with her family and close friends. She also enjoys watching her son Trevor play sports and taking her dog Toby for long walks.

contact info

lisabrown@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Logan Gillum, CSIR

Equine Insurance Account Executive

A native Kentuckian, Logan has been a lifelong lover of horses and the equine industry. She grew up riding horses outside of Louisville and spent several of her childhood years as a volunteer at a local therapeutic riding facility for children with disabilities. Logan had always hoped that her passion for horses would ultimately translate into a career path, so she set her eyes on the University of Louisville Equine Business Program, from which she graduated with her BSBA in 2013.

Logan joined the Sterling Thompson Equine team in 2016 and enjoys being able to intertwine her love of horses with her work as an equine insurance agent. She continues to ride and compete in the sport of Eventing in her spare time, as well as volunteer for a local Doberman rescue group. Logan and her husband, Matt, are proud parents of their daughter, Sunnie, two rescued Dobermans, and a tabby cat (that thinks he’s a Doberman).

contact info

logangillum@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.228.1600

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Mark Howard, CIC, ARM

Business Insurance Advisor

Mark is a Kentucky native and graduated with a BBA degree from Eastern Kentucky University. He began his insurance career as a Claims Representative in 1994 before becoming a Commercial Property & Casualty agent in 2004. Mark has obtained the CIC and ARM designations and is also a licensed Insurance Consultant. He works with companies in a wide variety of industries but specializes in providing insurance and bonding solutions to contractors.

Mark and his wife Andrea reside in Lexington, Kentucky and are the proud parents of their daughter Afton.

contact info

markhoward@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Mary Cheatham

Business Insurance Team Leader

Mary Cheatham is a Business Insurance Team Leader who joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2018. She has a diverse professional background which includes insurance, education, and human resources. Mary strives to provide professional and responsive customer support, with client satisfaction as her top priority. She is a proud graduate of the University of Louisville and enjoys cheering on the Cardinals in her free time. Outside of work, Mary enjoys reading, music, and spending time with her children, family, and friends. 

contact info

marycheatham@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Mary Gordon Hobbs

Personal Insurance Analyst

A native to Louisville, Mary Gordon attended Sacred Heart Academy.  She then graduated with a BA in Economics from Centre College where she was a member of the women’s basketball team.  After completing school, she returned to Sacred Heart Academy where she worked for five years as an Assistant Athletic Director and Basketball Coach.  Prior to joining Sterling Thompson Company, she spent seven years at PURE Insurance, a personal insurance carrier specifically designed for financially successful individuals and families. While at PURE, she held a variety of roles, most recently as a Territory Manager working with broker partners throughout the Midwest. It was there that she developed a deep understanding of the importance of protecting what matters most, and creating specifically tailored personal insurance solutions.

 Outside of work Mary Gordon enjoys staying active, spending time with friends and family, and cheering on the Kentucky Wildcats!  She lives in Saint Matthews with her husband, Nick, their daughter, Janie, and beloved Golden Retriever, Doc.

contact info

marygordonhobbs@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Matt Delehanty

Director of Equine Insurance

Matt Delehanty graduated from Bates College in Lewiston, ME with a BA in English in 1998. He moved to Kentucky in 2003 and accepted an internship with Longfield Farm and Kevin Lavin. In conjunction with Lavin Insurance, he was hired as an insurance broker with Hughes-Gibb, a division of Willis Limited in London, and worked placing equine mortality insurance on behalf of domestic agencies into the Lloyds of London market. He returned to the United States and began to work full time for Sterling Thompson Equine in January 2004. Sterling Thompson Equine represents many of the largest equine insurance companies in the world and Matt works with all of them to provide equine mortality, liability and farm insurance solutions for domestic and international clients. He lives in Anchorage, KY with his wife and three children.

contact info

mattdelehanty@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.228.1600

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Matthew Miller, MBA

Business Insurance Account Executive

Matthew Miller graduated from Indiana University Southeast with Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Journalism in 2009 and an MBA from the University of Louisville in 2011. Matthew began his insurance career with The Hartford in 2013 as an underwriter. He then worked as an insurance broker from 2019 until joining Sterling Thompson Company in February 2024.   

 Matthew lives on his family farm in southern Indiana with his wife, Sarah. They enjoy spending time with their adult children Emily, Gracie, Andrew, and Katelyn, along with granddaughter Nova Raine.

contact info

mattmiller@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Matthew Thompson

Senior Claims Specialist

Matthew joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2024, bringing with him his experience and expertise as a multi-line claim adjuster with Amica, Pekin Insurance, and Travelers. He graduated from Purdue University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s of Science in management with concentrations in finance and international business. While attending Purdue, he was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. As a licensed adjuster, Matthew understands that providing excellent customer service, utilizing knowledge of policies and best claims handling practices, and being detail-oriented are the best ways to ensure a successful claims experience.

Matthew currently resides in southern Indiana with his wife, Emily, and two children, Henry and Ellie. He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, supporting the Purdue Boilermakers, and golfing.

contact info

matthewthompson@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Melanie Bland

Personal Insurance Service Specialist

Melanie Bland joined Sterling Thompson Company in January 2018 as a Personal Insurance Service Specialist, where she provides clerical support to members of the Personal Insurance department. The majority of Melanie’s work experience, since graduating high school, comes from her employment in the insurance business. She has served both on the insurance company side and broker/agency side. Melanie obtained her Property & Casualty Insurance license in January 2007 and regularly attends continuing education classes to stay up-to- date on the industry. She enjoys being outdoors as often as possible, especially going to the beach, and is also an animal-lover. Melanie likes to travel, spend as much time as she can with friends, family (and pets), and go for long bike rides in the park with her husband.

contact info

melaniebland@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Melanie Holbert

Personal Insurance Account Manager

Born and raised in Louisville, Melanie graduated from Bellarmine University with Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Theatre. While attending college, she completed multiple internships at Louisville fixtures such as the Louisville Palace and Kentucky Center for the Arts. Melanie joined the team at Sterling Thompson Company in February 2019.

 Melanie is thrilled to have joined the personal insurance department and looks forward to creating new relationships with her clients. She brings with her multiple years of experience in the field of customer service.

 Melanie is married with 2 dogs (Drax and Ford) and also enjoys the company of her pet pig (Posey). She and her husband enjoy spending time with family, traveling together and creating new and exciting projects for their home.

contact info

melanieholbert@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Melissa Wiseheart

Compliance and Benefit Administration Specialist

Melissa Wiseheart is a licensed life and health agent in Kentucky and joined Sterling Thompson Company in October 2021. Melissa came from outside of the Insurance Industry and worked as a local librarian for thirteen years. This experience gave her a strong background in customer service, as well as a desire to serve the community.

Melissa was born and raised in New Albany, Indiana and has a passion for learning about the city’s history. She received her Bachelor of General Studies from Indiana University Southeast in 2018. In her free time, Melissa enjoys journaling, reading, painting, and researching her family history.

contact info

melissawiseheart@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Nathan Mulvey

Risk Management and Strategic Growth Advisor, Retired Fire Chief, Public Safety Advocate

Nathan Mulvey retired as Fire Chief of Fern Creek Fire & EMS after 32 years of dedicated public service. Beginning his career as a volunteer in 1993, Chief Mulvey rose through the ranks—serving as Firefighter, Sergeant, Captain, Training Bureau Chief, Assistant Chief of Operations, and ultimately Chief in 2019. Under his leadership, the department grew from 30 to over 200 personnel, starting an Advanced Life Support Ground Ambulance Service and successfully merging with three other fire districts, expanding services to a population of 150,000+ across 86 square miles making it the fourth-largest fire department in Kentucky.

Chief Mulvey has been a Nationally Certified EMT since 2000 and is a respected fire service educator with over 20 years of teaching experience. He is the Past President of the Kentucky Association of Fire Chiefs, Past 2nd Vice President of the Southeastern Division of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and a former Board Member of the Kentucky Fire Commission. In 2020, he was named Fire Chief of the Year by the Kentucky Fire Chiefs and the Kentucky League of Cities. He also received the City’s Medal of Honor for heroic rescue efforts in 2013.

Married to his wife Stephanie for over 26 years and father to three adult daughters, Nathan is deeply committed to his family, faith, and community. He remains active in public safety advocacy at the legislative level, both state and nationally, and began a new chapter in 2025 as a Risk Management and Strategic Growth Advisor with Sterling Thompson Company.

contact info

nathanmulvey@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Ned Booker, CIC

Business Insurance Advisor

Ned Booker was born and raised in Louisville, attending St. Xavier High School. After graduating from the University of the South, he began his professional career with a large shortline railroad and contracting company working across the U.S. Ned also worked with a New Albany-based logistics company, assisting regional shippers with managing their freight. Since arriving at Sterling Thompson Company, Ned continues his professional focus on manufacturing, construction, and emergency services. He enjoys sharing his passion and expertise with companies throughout the region. Ned earned the designation of Certified Work Comp Advisor (CWCA) as well as Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC).

Ned currently serves as Secretary of the Board at Pillar and as a board member of the Kilgore Samaritan Counseling Center. Ned and his wife live in Louisville with their three children, and he enjoys spending time outdoors golfing, fishing, and hunting.

contact info

nedbooker@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Nikki Young, CIC, CISR

Director of Personal Insurance/ Vice President of Epic Operations

Nikki graduated from Western Kentucky University in 2002 with a BA in Public Relations. In 2003, she began her insurance career as an Account Manager with Liberty Mutual Insurance.  Nikki has over 15 years of experience in Personal Insurance and agency management. She currently holds the Certified Insurance Counselor & Certified Insurance Service Representative designations.  Nikki joined Sterling Thompson in 2019 serving as the Director of Personal Insurance.

When out of the office, Nikki enjoys spending time with her husband, Travis and 3 children, Zach, Morgan & Madison.

contact info

nikkiyoung@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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O’D Lee

Personal Insurance Advisor

O'D is a seasoned insurance professional who combines deep industry expertise with a personal commitment to protecting his clients' assets across the country. After earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and Master's degree from Spalding University in Louisville, O'D pursued a range of professional experiences that shaped his approach to risk management.

His early career included competitive tournament golf in Florida and a role with a family-run real estate conservation and catering group in New York City. While there he managed historic property restorations, business development and event planning from beginning to end. These experiences provided O’D with unique insights into property values, risk assessment, and client service most importantly.

Since 2009, O'D has built a thriving boutique insurance practice in the Locust Valley area of Long Island. As a dedicated Property and Liability specialist, he serves as an advisor to generations of discerning clients between New York and California including everywhere in between. His expertise is grounded in customized solutions and ranges from straightforward homeowner's coverage to intricate family entities as well as domestic and international commercial exposures.

O'D is a Long Island native and now lives just miles from his childhood home with his wife Rachel and their three children: Charlotte, Gus, and Foster. His strong family connections extend to Louisville through his sister Virginia and multiple Kentucky cousins. O'D's personalized service approach combines technical expertise with genuine care for the friends and family whom he advises and protects.

contact info

odlee@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Olivia Flaherty

Personal Insurance Service Specialist

Olivia joined the Sterling Thompson Company team in December of 2022. She serves as the Office Coordinator. In 2017, she graduated from Eastern High School and dove straight into the insurance industry soon after graduation. She enjoys working with her sister, Logan, and the whole Sterling Thompson Company team. Insurance isn’t the only industry Olivia is familiar with. She also has a background in real estate. She loves being a team player in the workplace and has a passion for helping others succeed.

Olivia lives in Louisville, Kentucky with her husband, Casey, and their two dogs, Mako and Korra. She enjoys cooking, interior design, traveling out west, and being outdoors as much as possible. Olivia also likes brunching with her friends and spending time with her niece, Sunnie.

contact info

oliviaflaherty@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Paul Baker

Senior Risk Advisor

Paul Baker is a Lexington native and second-generation insurance advisor with a career rooted in risk management. After attending the University of Kentucky, Paul began his professional journey in the banking industry, where he developed a foundational understanding of financial systems and institutional risk. He later transitioned into the insurance sector, first as a producer for a local independent agency and subsequently as a regional marketing director for a national managing general agency.

 In 2015, Paul founded Baker Risk Management, a firm designed to serve both retail clients and specialized commercial sectors. His approach integrates strategic risk assessment with tailored insurance solutions, positioning him as a trusted advisor in complex risk environments.

 Since joining Sterling Thompson Company in April 2025, Paul has continued to expand his expertise in enterprise risk management and remains committed to professional development in advanced insurance strategies and regulatory compliance.

 Paul resides in Lexington, KY with his wife, Calhoun, and their two dogs. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting, cooking, and traveling.

contact info

paulbaker@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Philip D. Anderton, CIC, CRM

president

Philip Anderton joined Sterling Thompson Company in January of 2002 after 3 years of coaching college football. In 2016 Philip assumed the role as agency President, and continues to head the Advisor Development Program. Business Insurance for Multi-Family property owners and developers is his area of specialization with expertise in projects insured nationwide. Philip graduated from Centre College with a BA in History, and was a member of Delta Kappa Epsilon. Philip and his wife Austin are the proud parents of Mary Sterling and Jack. They are members of 2nd Presbyterian Church.

contact info

philipanderton@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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R. Alex Rankin, CPCU

chairman

R. Alex Rankin grew up in Louisville and graduated with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He started his career with First National Bank of Louisville. He joined Sterling Thompson Company in 1982 and attained the designation of CPCU (Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter) in 1985. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board for Sterling Thompson Company. He also serves as Chairman of the James Graham Brown Foundation, Chairman of Churchill Downs, Inc. and President of Upson Downs Farm, Inc.

contact info

alexrankin@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Rob Desensi, CIC, CRA

Vice President of Finance and Administration

A native of Louisville and son of a Thoroughbred race horse trainer, Rob’s interest in horses in a roundabout way lead him to his career in the insurance industry. After graduating from the University of Kentucky in 1998, Rob worked in banking and technology sales before returning to the horse industry. He earned a graduate degree in 2004 from the University of Louisville Equine School of Business. Shortly thereafter, Rob entered the insurance industry working in the areas of both equine mortality and farm owner’s insurance. Prior to joining Sterling Thompson, Rob helped manage a number of agencies located throughout the country specializing in farm and equine insurance. 

 Rob currently serves as the Director of Operations. As a partner and member of the agency’s leadership team, his role coordinates the agency’s operations activities, leads and directs the staff responsible for the company’s administrative services, and is responsible for creating efficiencies by implementing and enforcing company systems and processes.

 Rob resides in Louisville with his wife Sara and their children Clayton, Davis, Henry, and Frances.

contact info

robdesensi@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Rob Harring, REBC

Employee Benefits Advisor

Rob Harring has been an Employee Benefits Advisor with Sterling Thompson Company since 2018.  After graduating from the University of Southern California in 2004, Rob spent years in the yacht sales and racing industry, assisting with million-dollar purchases and training owners and crews in teamwork and communication.

 Rob helps companies maximize the dollars they spend on health insurance and gives their employees the information they need to understand and efficiently use their benefits. He has helped many companies make the decision to move from fully-insured to a partially self-funded arrangement and take control of their health plan costs with data.  This allows the health plan to save money while getting their employees high quality, low cost care.

 Rob is active in United Benefit Advisors, an alliance of independent employee benefit agencies, and is co-chair of the Nextgen committee. Outside of work, you can find Rob coaching his three children in soccer, volleyball, and baseball; or on the river sailing or motorboating with his wife, Lee, and the kids.

contact info

robharring@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Samantha J. Wilson, CPA

Accounting Team Leader

Samantha Wilson started with Sterling Thompson Company in 2018.  Prior to that, she was a tax supervisor for 8 years at a top 100 CPA firm.  Samantha earned her B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Louisville in 2010, where she graduated with Honors.  She achieved degrees in Accounting and Finance and a minor in International Business.  She earned her Certified Public Accounting license in 2012.

Outside of work, Samantha enjoys spending time at Broad Run Park or the zoo with her husband, Justin, and three children, Xander, Ryder, and Piper.  She is also very involved at Southeast Christian Church, attending various events and leading a table for women’s bible study.  She is also on the church’s stewardship committee with her husband, and together they facilitate Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University classes.

contact info

samanthawilson@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Sara Bornemann

Business Insurance Service Specialist

Sara has called Louisville home for seven years after sojourns in San Diego, St. Paul, Honolulu, Austin, and Boston. Sara received her M.A. in American History from the University of Louisville in 2018, writing her thesis on Irish-American political activities at the turn of the 20th century. She turned her curiosity and love of learning towards a new industry, and joined Sterling Thompson Company to provide expertise in research, planning, and support for the Business Insurance team. Sara is happiest with her daughter, a book about American history, her rescue dog, and live music.

contact info

sarabornemann@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.992.8394

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Sarah Scott (Ebelhar)

Business Insurance Account Executive

Sarah Scott joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2016, where she serves as a Business Insurance Account Executive. As insurance is an ever-changing industry, Sarah enjoys learning about new coverages and how they will impact her clients. Sarah handles a variety of businesses and has an expertise in Fire Departments, Municipalities, and Medical field related coverages.  

Sarah graduated in 2012 from the University of Louisville with a Bachelor’s in Psychology. As a Kentucky native who now lives in Southern Indiana, she enjoys exploring her community with her husband, Nick, and their dogs, Ziggy and Annie. 

contact info

sarahscott@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Shannon Goss

Real Estate Account Manager

With over two decades of experience in the insurance industry, Shannon Goss brings a deep, hands-on understanding of business insurance to her role as an Account Executive on the Real Estate team at Sterling Thompson. Since starting her career in 2003 as a receptionist, Shannon has worked her way through nearly every position in the agency, gaining a comprehensive knowledge of coverages and customer service along the way.

Her primary focus is on real estate and construction clients, where she believes that truly understanding a client’s business is essential to providing the right insurance solutions. Shannon is passionate about continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends to ensure her clients receive the most informed and effective coverage options available.

Outside of work, Shannon leads a vibrant and active life. She enjoys working out, taking long motorcycle rides, and hiking the desert trails with her pups on the weekends. A creative at heart, she also collects unique rocks and transforms them into beautiful handmade jewelry. Most of all, she cherishes time spent with her husband, family, and friends.

contact info

shannongoss@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Scott Pippen

Senior Risk Advisor

A native of Lexington, Scott received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the Insurance and Risk Management program at Eastern Kentucky University in 1981. He has also completed extensive insurance studies at the University of Hartford as well as the American Institute of Insurance. Licensed since 1977, he has also served on the boards of both the local Lexington and state Kentucky Independent Agents Association.

In 1985, Scott acquired full ownership of Blue Grass Insurance Agency. He has extensive experience in commercial insurance and risk management on a national level as well as with high net worth personal accounts.

Having served on numerous boards of local non-profit organizations, Scott has also been significantly involved with the Christ the King Church parish and Lexington Catholic High School. Married with four children, Scott is a devoted father and husband with interests in thoroughbred horses, golf, and wine collecting.

contact info

scottpippen@sterlingthompson.com
cell: 859.983.2487

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Stella Musselman

Business Insurance Service Specialist

Stella was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. She graduated from Auburn University in December 2024 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Family Business. After graduating, Stella joined Sterling Thompson Company in May 2025 as a Business Insurance Service Specialist working with the Small Business Team. Around the office, she enjoys learning more about the insurance industry and getting to know her colleagues. Stella values teamwork, communication, and honesty. Her favorite part about working at Sterling Thompson is the opportunity for growth and learning and the welcoming community.

 In her free time, Stella enjoys needlepointing, reading, teaching Pilates, and spending time with her two dogs, Korbel and Honey.

contact info

stellamusselman@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Stephanie Barrett

Personal Insurance Advisor

Stephanie Barrett is passionate about Louisville’s philanthropic community, specifically the Arts and childhood athletics. Stephanie was a member of the national team for Lakeside Swim Club during high school, while attending Sacred Heart Academy. Her love for the water transitioned from competing to teaching children and young adults how to swim. In addition to her athletic achievements, Stephanie attended St. Francis School of Goshen, which taught her appreciation for the Arts. In an effort to encourage artistic education in the community, Stephanie serves as President of the Great Meadows Foundation and is a Member of the Board at KMAC Museum.

 Stephanie graduated cum laude from Miami University in 2010, with a double major in Journalism and Spanish. After graduation, Stephanie gained 5 years’ experience working alongside her father, Steve Hall. In 2014, Stephanie transitioned from real estate to personal insurance at Sterling Thompson Company. With her background, she offers clients an advantage when addressing their risk management needs, not only for homeowner’s insurance, but also a number of other types of personal insurance coverage. In her spare time, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her husband George and their dog Barry Sanders.

contact info

stephaniebarrett@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Tina Bonham

Personal Insurance Rating Coordinator

Tina Bonham joined Sterling Thompson Company as a Personal Insurance Rating Coordinator in July 2024.  Tina is a Kentucky native who started her journey into the insurance industry at SGT, previously working as a school director and teacher for two decades. Her prior background gives her a strong desire to help others and an attention to detail that she hopes to apply to her work and in building client relationships.

 In Tina’s spare time, she enjoys reading, crafting, photography, and DIY projects.  She also enjoys spending time at her home on the lake in Shelbyville, KY that she shares with her high school sweetheart husband, their two kids, three dogs, and their bird. 

contact info

tinabonham@sterlingthompson.com
office: 859.410.2448

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Todd Frakes, CRA, ACI

Real Estate Team Leader

Todd graduated from Centre College with a B.A in Economics, and from the University of Cincinnati with an M.A in Applied Economics. He joined Sterling Thompson in February 2020 after 21 years coaching collegiate football. Through coaching, his family lived in Kentucky, Germany, California, Iowa, and most recently Michigan, while coaching at Eastern Michigan University. At Sterling Thompson Company, he focuses on real estate insurance with a heavy emphasis on developers and owners of apartment complexes. From ground up construction to stabilization and operation, the real estate team understands the markets and the needs associated. Todd and his wife Meghan live with their two girls, Hadley and Ellery, in Louisville.

contact info

toddfrakes@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Tracy Spalding

Office Coordinator

Tracy was raised in Corydon, Indiana where she raised her four children, as well. She now calls Lanesville, Indiana home. Tracy graduated from Corydon Central High School and attended Sullivan University where she majored in Marketing. She has over 5 years of experience in Personal Lines Insurance and Client Services and many years of various Customer Service experience. Tracy joined Sterling Thompson Company in October of 2023 as an Office Coordinator. 

 Outside of the office, Tracy enjoys spending time with her four grown children and grandson, along with other family and friends. She also enjoys attending live music events, dreams of living near the beach, and has been known to stop and pet all doggies.

contact info

tracyspalding@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Tracy Yelton

Receptionist

Tracy Yelton has been with Sterling Thompson Company since 2005, serving as the Receptionist. She is the friendly voice on the other end of the phone, eager to help you. Tracy graduated from Jeffersonville High School in 1992. She is a family person – a loving mother of two daughters and a caring wife to Gordon since 1997. Tracy has a twin sister Stephanie, whom she visits from time to time. Tracy is also an avid animal-lover.

contact info

tracyyelton@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Trena Sullivan

Employee Benefits Large Group Practice Leader

Trena Sullivan has over 20 years of knowledge in the employee benefits field.  She is a licensed life and health agent in Kentucky and Indiana who joined Sterling Thompson Company in January 2020. Trena came from another insurance agency where she served as an Account Executive for large group accounts. Prior to that, Trena worked at Humana for 9 years as an employee benefits large group Account Executive.  Outside of work, Trena enjoys Broadway plays, live music, reading and spending time with her family and friends.

contact info

trenasullivan@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Trey Queenan

business insurance advisor

Trey was born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky. He graduated with a BA in Biology with a minor in Statistics from the University of Kentucky in 2020. As a high school lacrosse coach and Lexington Country Club Caddie while in college, Trey fell in love with the Horseracing community. He found himself starting his career with Lexington Equine Insurance, who later became part of Sterling Thompson Company, and hasn’t looked back. Trey now focuses his attention on all lines of insurance with an emphasis on the equine community.

contact info

treyqueenan@sterlingthompson.com
office: 859.410.2448

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Val Jones

Equine Insurance Account Manager

Originally from Ellsworth, OH, Val wandered into the horse world as a child and never looked back. With a foundation of riding Hunters, Dressage, and Grassroots Eventing she transitioned to the racing industry through an apprenticeship and gained a wealth of rehabilitation knowledge. She graduated from Kent State University with a B.S. in Zoology (focusing on physiology) and did a stint in biomedical research. Deciding that bench work just wasn’t her thing she returned to the horse world as a riding instructor and ran her own layup program for retired race horses and sport horses. She also spent several years as an equine insurance adjuster.

 Val is excited and honored to be a part of Sterling Thompson Company’s Equine department. She and her husband live on a farm in Lodi, OH with their three horses, three dogs, three “inside” cats, and four “barn” cats. Outside of riding she enjoys training for long-distance backpacking trips, camping, reading, cooking, and simply relaxing at her farm.

contact info

valjones@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Will Hadden

Employee Benefits Account Executive

Will Hadden joined Sterling Thompson Company in 2024 with over six years of experience as a Senior Financial Analyst for an independent employee benefits company in Indianapolis. Will has experience working with large self-funded employers and solving some of the issues these employers face. Will is equipped with expertise in claims analytics, budget forecasting, and a vast knowledge of employee benefits plans. He is certified in Self-Funding and Pharmacy Benefit Managers from the National Association of Business Insurance Professionals. Will wants to help clients put together and maintain benefit plans that create a healthier employee population while managing employers’ costs.

 Will grew up in the Indianapolis area and now resides in Floyds Knobs. He is a graduate of Ball State University. In his free time, Will enjoys golfing, rock climbing, and spending time in the outdoors with his wife, Rachel.

contact info

willhadden@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.585.3277

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Sara Geisinger, AFIS

Equine Insurance ACCOUNT MANAGER

Sara grew up in the Fair Hill, Maryland area spending most after school days working at a barn, riding, or driving.  She attended Wilson College in Pennsylvania, earning her BS in 2004 in the dual track program Equine / Equestrian Studies, and rode on the Dressage Team.  After college, she began her career with McCauley Bros, Inc and over 16 years, gained invaluable experience in equine nutrition and the feed industry.  Her hands-on experience as an assistant barn manager at a therapeutic riding center helped her appreciate the dedication and hard work that encompasses an equestrian lifestyle.

 In 2018, she relocated to Kentucky to be with her husband on his family cattle farm. In additional to cattle, they have two rescued coonhounds, a very lazy basset hound, and three horses. Her passion continues to be dressage and meeting fellow equestrians that share her love of the sport. Her focus on dressage doesn’t keep her in the ring, as she is always eager to hit the trails! 

 Sara looks forward to bringing her professional and personal experiences in the equine industry to help clients make informed decisions they can be confident in at Sterling Thompson Company!

contact info

sarageisinger@sterlingthompson.com
office: 502.228.1600