Jennifer Kowkabany, Governance Chair, knows how to hold her own — having at one time been the only female Marine in a squadron of more than 200. Learn more about Jennifer’s vision for creating change through active service in this short Q&A.
How did you get involved with WGA?
After attending a connector event held at a friend’s house, I remember being so impressed with the organization and the level of conversation in the room — quite refreshing to a professional whose work at the time primarily consisted of play dates and diaper changes! Once I researched WGA and saw the list of members, many of whom are women I admire, I knew this was an organization I wanted to be a member of. Surround yourself with those you want to be like.
What motivates you as a leader?
I have a mantra that you shouldn’t complain about something if you’re not willing to get involved and change it. This can be as simple as alerting Public Works that a streetlight is out or as bold as running for public office. If not you, who?
Describe your vision for the Governance Committee.
During my time on Governance, we worked on, and then assisted with, the implementation of the vision from Mission Possible. This included a renovation of our existing bylaws to ensure WGA could stay agile as we adjusted to our changing needs as an organization. Governance has been, and always will be, there to help guide WGA leadership with bylaw interpretation and accountability.
What do you do/enjoy outside of WGA?
With three teens, I spend a lot of time keeping the family unit operating. While they are in school, I do contract legal work as a General Counsel for small businesses and serve as the President on the Board of Directors of Atlantic Beach Country Club. For fun, I travel to music festivals, and I also love to garden.
Tell us a “fun fact” about you that many do not know.
During my service in the Marine Corps, I worked on the ordnance systems and loaded missiles and guns on attack helicopters. For years I was the only female Marine in our squadron of 200+.