LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Jefferson County Clerk David Yates appointed University of Louisville basketball Hall of Famer Milt Wagner as the county's new Voter Outreach and Civic Engagement Ambassador.
The role focuses on community outreach initiatives designed to increase voter registration within Jefferson County. Wagner will represent the office at public events, including visits to schools, civic groups and community organizations — an effort designed to make election information more accessible.
Yates said Wagner's deep ties to Louisville and years of working with young people make him well suited for the role.
"Milt Wagner is a Louisville icon whose leadership and integrity extend far beyond the basketball court," Yates said in a news release Wednesday. "His ability to connect with people and his commitment to this community will significantly enhance our efforts to reach more residents and expand civic participation."
Wagner, known by fan as "Ice Man," is one of UofL's top scorers in team history, ranking sixth all-time with more than 1,800 points. He played from 1981-86 and started on the 1986 National Championship team.
He most recently worked as a youth mentor for Jefferson County Public Schools. Earlier, he served as director of player development and alumni relations for the UofL men's basketball program under head coach Kenny Payne beginning in 2022.
His No. 20 jersey hangs in the KFC Yum! Center, honoring a career that later earned him induction into the UofL Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004.
Wagner said he is proud to serve as an ambassador and his love for Louisville played a key role in his decision.
"Louisville has always been home for me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to encourage more people—especially young voters—to participate in our democracy," Wagner said. "I appreciate Clerk Yates' trust in me and look forward to engaging with residents across the community."
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