Molly Bryan: Public Information Coordinator, Jefferson City

Two years ago, Jefferson City created a new position aimed at uniting public engagement, social media, and media relations under one strategic vision. The public information coordinator role technically existed for years, but sat vacant until a dedicated, community-minded professional stepped in and made the role her own.

With a background in communications and public relations at Northwest Missouri State University, Molly Bryan brings a unique blend of private-sector branding experience and structured government service, thanks in part to her time in the National Guard, which she joined in 2014. After working in sales and branding at a liquor company, she eventually moved to Jefferson City and was a stay-at-home mom. Later, she joined JC Parks as its community relations manager. Although she never expected to work in government, it quickly became clear she had found her wheelhouse.

“I think the quote, ‘It’s hard to change the world, but easy to change your piece of it,’ applies to my job every day,” she says of her time in public service.

She began her role in February of 2024 and immediately set to work modernizing and unifying the city’s messaging. One of her first initiatives was to lead a city rebrand, bringing in Missouri’s Kansas City-based Novella Brand house through a public request for proposal process. Although she’s a strong believer in local support, she saw the value in an outside perspective to guide the rebrand with fresh eyes. Public input also played a central role, with residents contributing what they loved about Jefferson City and what they hoped to see in the new logo and branding.

In just under two years, she has led the creation of a city style guide, new flag and logo design, and the ongoing overhaul of the city’s website. All of her accomplishments have been part of a larger goal of creating clearer, more consistent communication. Her efforts extend beyond branding into creative, community-driven initiatives: a holiday card contest in which children submitted artwork that was judged by the mayor, city open houses that foster transparency, and campaigns that continue to draw both residents and visitors alike to the town’s many attractions.

She attributes the accomplishments to her greatest strength, which was identified by her husband. That strength? It’s how much she cares.

“I care about people, about this town, about its reputation and culture; and I love being in a position that’s allowed me to focus on that,” Molly shares.

That passion fuels her desire to help Jefferson City tell its story better and connect its many nonprofits, businesses, and residents.