Episode 70. Tom Owen – Past Louisville Metro Councilman (2002-2017) & University of Louisville Archivist
Driven by the desire to make a contribution to his community, Louisville-native Tom Owen serves as councilman for Metro Council District 8 in his hometown.
Tom was elected as one of the original council members of the newly formed Louisville Metro government in 2002. He had previously served as an alderman in the Louisville Board of Alderman from 1990–1998. In addition to his role as councilman, he participates in several Metro planning committees.
Tom has been a professor at the University of Louisville since 1968. He is a well-known local historian and activist, leading many historic tours of Louisville landmarks. He frequently contributes to television and radio, and also has a number of videos of his “walking history tours” of the city.
Tom has received several awards, including a distinguished service award from the Louisville Historical League and an Outstanding University of Louisville Employee award. Tom is passionate about biking, recycling and public transit in Louisville. He also holds a Bachelor of Divinity from Methodist Theological School in Ohio, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kentucky Wesleyan.