The Friends of the Shiawassee River is proud to announce the newest member of their Board of Directors – Brianna Carroll.  Brianna, known to her friends and colleagues as Bri, is the owner of the Fitness Coliseum and the primary organizer of the Shi~Tri run, paddle, and bike event in conjunction with the Friends.

“I am incredibly excited to be joining the Friends’ Board,” said Carroll.  “My first interaction with the Friends was as the Shi~Tri came to life.  Although we had to postpone that event’s inaugural year to 2021, I realized what a great group the Friends were and how involved they are in the community.  As a small business owner and young professional, I believe it is very important to get involved with our local nonprofits to keep them moving forward and thriving.”

She adds “My personal favorite way to enjoy the river is on my paddle board, which if you’re wondering, is an amazingly stable and easy to navigate down the river.”

Carroll was born and raised in Ovid-Elsie (literally both) and then went to Michigan State University to earn her bachelor’s degree in dietetics. After spending a few years in St. Petersburg, Florida for an internship and first job in the field, she found herself back home to be near her family. In April of 2018, she took over the ownership of the Fitness Coliseum and has been in love with the Owosso community ever since.

“The Friends organization is thrilled to have Bri as a member of our Board,” said Nick Tereck, Friends’ Board President.  “In addition to her professional expertise, she brings with her a youthful vitality and love for the out-of-doors – especially river-related activities.  We look forward to her bringing some fun, new events to the community through her Friends’ work.”