Last Word with Brenda Cogdell

Brenda Cogdell, President of Tri-County Industries, has a passion for helping people. TCI is a non-profit organization in Rocky Mount that assists people with mental and physical disabilities get training and secure jobs to help them become self-sufficient. Brenda has been with the company for over 29 years and the sheer volume of success stories from hundreds of TCI clients is what makes Brenda such a remarkable woman. Brenda lives in Nashville with her husband of 36 years, Haywood, and has two grown sons, Mark and Wesley.

Something many people don’t know about me: I’m not sure—I’m pretty much an open book!

My passion is: working with people

The most important thing I ever lost: an emerald and diamond necklace

My best friend says I am: a caring person

My theme song would be: “Brenda” (of course!)

Favorite piece of clothing in my closet: black slacks

Best accessory I have it goes with everything: an opal ring that was my mom’s

Words I live by: It’s important to be fair to everyone

Favorite book: Gone with the Wind

I am most proud of: being the leader of TCI

To three things your kids have taught you: don’t take everything so seriously, have fun, be patient

Best present I ever got: spa gift certificate

Movie I could watch over and over: To Kill a Mockingbird

The world would be a better place if: Everyone would just accept and respect each other

The best advice I ever got: Listen with an open mind

I’d like to learn: to play golf better

What makes me feel like a kid again: I don’t know—it’s been a long time since I was a kid

People should take time out every day to: exercise

A person I really look up to and admire is: my mom—she is so thoughtful and kind