Woodford Reserve has unveiled the limited-edition 2019 Kentucky Derby $1,000 Mint Julep Cup, and proceeds from this year’s sales will support the John Asher Memorial Scholarship Fund at Western Kentucky University.
John Asher (’90) combined his passion for WKU with his career at Churchill Downs, where he served as Vice President of Racing Communications. He died suddenly last August at age 62.
Only 145 cups are available, including a $1,000 silver cup and a $2,500 gold-plated version. Cups can be purchased at woodfordreservemintjulep.com until April 30.
“John Asher was a devoted Hilltopper alumnus, volunteer and parent, and this scholarship fund is a lasting memorial to him,” said Donald Smith, President of the College Heights Foundation, which will administer the scholarship at WKU. “It is a fitting tribute that a souvenir from the Kentucky tradition John so loved will help support students at his beloved alma mater.”
A proposal is before the Louisville Metro Council to rename part of Central Avenue, the street in front of Churchill Downs, to John S. Asher Way to further honor his legacy.
For more than 20 years, John facilitated WKU Day at the Races events for alumni. He was also always willing to host a Hilltopper, give a tour or emcee any event, and he proudly wore the WKU red. Asher was a member of the WKU Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter and a past member of both the Mahurin Honors College at WKU Parents Advisory Council and the WKU Alumni Association Board of Directors, where he served as President from 2007-2008.
A Lifetime Member of the WKU Alumni Association, Asher was the recipient of the Westerner of the Year award from the Greater Louisville Alumni Chapter, the Practitioner Award from the WKU School of Journalism and Broadcasting and the Volunteer of the Year award from WKU. In addition, he was a longtime supporter of WKU Alumni Association and Department of Journalism & Broadcasting.
Asher and his wife, Dee, have three children, all of whom attended WKU.
To purchase a 2019 Kentucky Derby mint julep cup, visit woodfordreservemintjulep.com.
For more information about the John Asher Memorial Scholarship Fund, contact Jessica Carver at (270) 745-2342.
Release from WKU
