Marketing and Events Coordinator, Last Flight Brewing Company, Physical Therapist, Capital Region Medical Center
This year, Jefferson City Magazine recognizes 10 Ones To Watch—a group of up-and-comers who are not only high-character individuals, but who also have achieved things that have bettered the community. This group inspires through faith, drive, and dedication, and they have shown effective leadership in both their professional and personal involvements.
Brianna Cowley serves many roles, and all of them are rooted in service. From supporting her patients to raising kids and the giving of her free time, she enjoys the journey on the path toward growth.
I think my life is largely about family and helping others. Philanthropy was ingrained in me by my family, so it’s always been apart of who I am. My husband says I’m a nurturer. I want to be the kind of person people call when they need someone who they rely on and that they know will show up when things get tough.
DREAM INTERVIEW
Even though most questions were answered in her book, “Bossypants,” I’d interview Tina Fey because it would be a riot! I really love to laugh, and I relate to people that go against the grain. I’d love to hear anecdotes that shaped her life and career as we laugh our butts off. Or perhaps I would interview Ernest Hemingway because he was a real proponent of going out and experiencing life.
ON GRATITUDE
I’m most grateful for my family— the one I came from and the one I’ve created. My husband is my loyal partner and best friend. He loves and supports me beyond measure, and we make a great team. I hit the jackpot when I met him. My kids are also the coolest people I know. Watching them grow and figure out the world is awesome. I’m also fortunate to have a community of people that support us, which I think is essential to thrive.
ON GOALS
My modus operandi is to take each day as it comes and make the best of it. I make lists to keep myself on track and prioritize things. I suppose I’m always working toward a target, but I keep my focus somewhat broad to stay open to alternatives or opportunities. I get more joy out of achievements if I enjoy the push and the journey rather than barreling toward the end goal. My motivation is intrinsic. If there’s something I want, I’ll work to get it.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Currently, I serve my community through projects at Last Flight, my physical therapy career, the Parkinson’s Support Group, my kids’s school, and some great volunteer organizations here in Jefferson City. I grew up with a service mindset and it’s something that’s important to me. In turn, it exposes me to unique opportunities and surrounds me with amazing people. My stint with service started in Girl Scouts. I remember doing a stream cleanup with the stream team, and it was awesome. I got to do a hands-on project, get dirty, be outside, and contribute to the community in a tangible way. Later in college, I was in a service sorority where I met my best friends. Now, I have a career in physical therapy whereI work with a group of selfless, caring, amazing individuals. Last Flight has given me the opportunity to give back, be creative, and lead. I think you reap what you sow when it comes to service. You put in time and energy, and you get a really huge return on your investment.You build relationships, see your community flourish, foster creativity, and learn new skills.
BRIANNA’S DEFINITION OF SUCCESS
Being happy. I don’t think it’s money or titles. If you are fortunate enough to find what brings you joy, to hell with the rest of it.
GREATEST MENTOR
I’m fortunate to have many mentors in different phases of my life. My mother showed me how to be a good person, my father taught me to work hard, my brother made me tough. I had a really cool boss named Angela in high school that taught me to buck society’s expectations. My husband also astounds me all the time, so I like to take his lead in a lot of things. I’m still learning from those around me.
LEAVING A LEGACY
I want people to remember I was a positive person, I made them laugh, and that I wasn’t afraid to say what’s on my mind or standup for someone.
FAVORITE PLACE IN JCMO:
Other than Last Flight, the Katy Trail.
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