Erin Russell Petrey was born in Lexington, Kentucky and grew up on a farm in Lawrenceburg. Her family's American roots stretch back to the 17th century, with generations serving as community leaders in Maysville and Hazard through public service, local business, and church leadership.

A proud graduate of Fayette County Public Schools, Erin went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in International Affairs and Anthropology from The George Washington University and a Master's Degree in Diplomacy and International Commerce from the Patterson School of Diplomacy at the University of Kentucky.

Graduating during the 2008 recession, Erin first found opportunity teaching English in South Korea. She then returned to DC, where she established herself as a dynamic leader in community and business, with a career that focused on advancing U.S. public diplomacy, building large-scale renewable energy and healthcare infrastructure projects, and building businesses focused on emerging technologies. At Amazon Web Services, she led strategic initiatives to enhance data center sustainability, while actively mentoring emerging professionals in the sustainability space.

A lifelong community servant, Erin has dedicated herself to numerous causes, including the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, The Arboretum, Teen Court, and local civics and arts programs. 

As a passionate Kentucky ambassador, Erin champions the Commonwealth's heritage, particularly America's Native Spirit. She serves as President Emeritus of the Kentucky Society of Washington and Board Member of Bourbon Women, bringing Kentucky's cultural traditions to the nation's capital. She is also a Kentucky Colonel, Executive Bourbon Steward, and active Daughter of the American Revolution.

Erin resides in Lexington with her senior rescue pup, Lila. She loves spending time with her niece and nephew and exploring the world with her mom.