About the Foundation

On March 29, 2017, Louisville Metro Police Officer Nick Rodman was killed in the line of duty while protecting the Louisville community he proudly served and deeply loved. Born and raised in Louisville, Nick dedicated his life to serving others with compassion, integrity, and selflessness.

In the months following Nick’s death, it became clear that his impact extended far beyond his family, friends and fellow officers.  Stories poured in from members of the community whose lives Nick had touched through simple acts of kindness, encouragement, and service.  Whether helping someone in crisis, offering support to those in need, or treating others with dignity and respect, Nick consistently made a lasting difference in the lives of those around him. 

While the loss of Nick profoundly changed the lives of his wife, children, parents, siblings, friends, and fellow officers, it also deeply impacted the Louisville community as a whole. His absence left a void felt by many, but his legacy of compassion and service continues to inspire others.

In 2019, the Nick Rodman Legacy Foundation was established to honor Nick’s life, legacy, and sacrifice through continued service to the Louisville community. This foundation was created not only as a way to preserve Nick’s memory, but also to give back to the community that provided overwhelming love, support, and compassion to the Rodman family during their most difficult time.

Built on love, remembrance, and service, the Nick Rodman Legacy Foundation is committed to creating a positive and lasting impact in Louisville by supporting individuals, families, first responders, youth, and community initiatives in Nick’s honor. Through every event, partnership, and act of giving, Nick’s legacy continues to live on.

We are deeply grateful to every individual, family, business, sponsor, volunteer, and community partner who has support the foundation throughout the years.  Your generosity, encouragement, and belief in our mission have allowed us to continue honoring Nick’s legacy in meaningful ways.  The continued support from the Louisville community serves as a powerful reminder that Nick’s sacrifice will never be forgotten.  

The Nick Rodman Legacy Foundation is a non profit organization dedicated to honoring Officer Nick Rodman’s sacrifice. Nick’s legacy will carry on forever as we support and give back to those in need within the Louisville community- the city Nick was born and raised in and died while protecting. The city he loved and respected with his whole heart.

Always in our Hearts. Never Forgotten 
Officer Nick Rodman 
EOW: March 29, 2017

ABOUT NICK

Nick Rodman was a devoted husband and father, beloved son and brother, loyal friend, and dedicated police officer who committed his life to serving the Louisville community he loved deeply. Born and raised in Louisville, Nick’s passion for his city shaped both his personal life and professional career.

Known for his calm demeanor, genuine compassion, and ability to connect with others, Nick never met a stranger. Whether someone knew him for a few minutes or many years, he made every person feel valued and respected. His kindness, humility, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

Nick attended Holy Cross High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. A standout student-athlete, he earned All-District and All-Regional honors in football.  After graduating with a 4.0 GPA in high school, Nick continued his education at Georgetown College, where he served as Vice President of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology.

While attending Georgetown College, Nick met his wife, Ashley. Following graduation, the couple returned to Louisville to build their life together and start a family. They were married in September 2013 and later welcomed their son, Mason, and daughter, Ellie Jean.  Family was at the center of Nick’s life. He loved bringing people together, spending time with family and friends, attending sporting events, listening to music, cooking for others, and supporting the Louisville Cardinals. Nick’s pride in his city and community was evident in everything he did.

In December 2013, Nick joined the Louisville Metro Police Department, following in the footsteps of his father and younger brother. After graduating from the police academy, he was assigned to the 1st Division, where he proudly served the neighborhoods of Portland, Russell, Beecher Terrace, NuLu, and Downtown Louisville. Nick took tremendous pride in serving and protecting the people of his community.

On March 29, 2017, Officer Nick Rodman was killed in the line of duty at the age of 30 after his police cruiser was struck by a fleeing suspect while responding to assist fellow officers. He left behind his wife, young son, newborn daughter, family, friends, fellow officers, and an entire community that continues to mourn his loss.  In the days following Nick’s death, countless stories emerged from community members whose lives had been impacted by his kindness and compassion. From offering encouragement to individuals facing difficult circumstances to extending simple acts of humanity to those in need, Nick’s actions reflected the character and integrity that defined his life and service.

Nick’s legacy continues through the Nick Rodman Legacy Foundation, which was established to honor his life, sacrifice, and commitment to helping others. His impact on the Louisville community remains enduring, and his legacy of service, compassion, and love will never be forgotten.