Roda Ferraro, Director of Keeneland Library, pursued her undergraduate studies at Emory University and graduate studies at Indiana University before her years in teaching and research oversight at Vanderbilt University and the University of Kentucky. She holds a master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Kentucky. Roda has more than 25 years of experience leading, assessing, and promoting library, museum, research, and educational services, including her work with the Keeneland Library and National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame since 2014.
![Book cover - The Heart of the Turf presented by Keeneland Library](/sites/default/files/2024-07/rodaferraro.jpg)
The Heart of the Turf: Racing's Black Pioneers
The Heart of the Turf: Racing's Black Pioneers, the first comprehensive chronicle of its kind, highlights the lives and careers of 125 African American horsemen and women from enslavement to today. From racetrack superstars to behind-the-scenes caretakers, The Heart of the Turf showcases select stories of the countless African Americans who forged their way in Kentucky and beyond, making the Thoroughbred racing and breeding industry what it is today.