Inside Janet Cowell's leadership: Inspiring change at Dix Park Conservancy

"Dix Park and the Conservancy are one of the most ambitious projects that the City of Raleigh has ever undertaken," Cowell said in an interview with WRAL.

She highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, working with diverse professionals, saying, "To get to work with so many wanted business leaders and artists and the creative and entrepreneurial aspects of it and the impact it can have on our community has been a real privilege."

Former state treasurer Cowell takes over leadership of Dix Park Conservancy

When asked about her perspective as a woman influencing her approach to governance and community development, Cowell acknowledged the challenges women face.

"As a woman, you get underestimated. People don't ask you to run for things or step up. You kinda have to nominate yourself." She emphasized the importance of seeking validation and allies, noting, "If you can find people who will help validate your idea, be allies with you, that's an important thing that maybe women have to consider a little more than men."

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Reflecting on significant moments in Dix Park's development, Cowell pointed to the transformative intertribal powwow events, saying, "To have events with communities that have not historically been recognized or encouraged or lauded, in our community, to have them embrace the site and have these incredible celebrations of Native American culture is kind of core to what Dix Park wants to do."

Raleigh's first intertribal powwow honors those driven off Dix Park land by settlers

Cowell had valuable advice for women aspiring to leadership roles. She emphasized the importance of passion.

"Do things that you're really passionate about so that you have the fortitude and the interest in continuing because no matter what you choose, you're gonna have obstacles."

Advising on selecting mentors and leaders wisely, she said, "Choose your person that you're working with, your supervisor and the leader of your organization wisely."

Cowell also highlighted the significance of voicing one's ambitions. "Once you know that you want to be promoted, I think you have to voice that. Articulate that I have an interest in growing in this company."

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Away from her professional endeavors, Cowell shared insights into her favorite Triangle spots, including Cup of Joe on Hillsborough Street. Describing it as a community, she noted, "It felt like a comforting kind of support, as I went to my day in my office, in my cubicle." She expressed love for her neighborhood, Boylan Heights, particularly during community events like the art walk, exemplifying the sense of happiness and walkability.

Looking ahead to 2024, Cowell anticipates the opening of renovated stone houses, converting them into a visitor and community center. She shared, "That's gonna be a really fun, I think festive opening." Highlighting upcoming public art initiatives, she mentioned a significant sculpture and sunflower transmission poles, aiming to make the park even more iconic.

Sunflower towers coming to Dix Park

Cowell expressed her desire for Raleigh's community to embrace joy and unity in the coming year, especially during a significant election season. She said, "Finding ways as a community that we embrace each other, are kind to each other, find the wonderful things that are happening every day, right and build on that."

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Cowell highlighted the return of the Dreamville festival in April 2024, a collaborative effort bringing transformative experiences to Raleigh. "J. Cole is continuing to care about his home state, investing in the community," she said.

Nicki Minaj will perform at Dreamville at Dix Park

Cowell's journey exemplifies leadership, advocacy and a commitment to community development, making her a standout nominee for the WRAL Voters' Choice Woman of the Year. Her insights into women's challenges in leadership, advice for aspiring leaders and vision for Dix Park showcase her dedication to empowering communities and fostering inclusivity.