Elk of the Month — Brianna Vanwey
Submitted by Karen Seaman, Exalted Ruler
Brianna Vanwey was born in Leavenworth, Kansas, a historic town well known for its famous penitentiary that once housed Machine Gun Kelly and the Birdman of Alcatraz. She has one brother, Donald, and the Lodge proudly knows her mother, Lisa Ferguson, who serves as our outstanding Inner Guard for the 2025–2026 Lodge year.
Brianna moved to Washington with her mother in 2006, and later relocated to Phoenix in the memorable year of 2020. She met her husband, Tyler, while in high school — and with her permission, she admits it was definitely not love at first sight. Thankfully, time worked its magic, and today they share a beautiful family with their two wonderful sons, Noah and Nicholas. Exalted Ruler Karen Seaman had the pleasure of working with Noah during the Veterans Day Parade, where his enthusiasm was contagious as he ran back and forth handing out flag pins.
Professionally, Brianna is a skilled Occupational Therapy Assistant, earning her degree from Pima College in Washington. Occupational Therapy Assistants work alongside Occupational Therapists to help individuals regain or improve their ability to perform daily living activities after illness, injury, or disability — from learning how to put on socks to safely exiting a shower. Brianna is on the front lines of patient care, and we thank her for her dedication and compassion in serving others.
Her husband, Tyler Vanwey, our Esteemed Loyal Knight, is an active-duty Navy Classifier, working in a critical human resources role where he matches incoming candidates with appropriate career paths. We extend our sincere gratitude to Tyler for his continued service to our country.
Brianna has been an incredibly active and reliable volunteer at Phoenix Elks Lodge #335. She has assisted with Lodge cleanups, the Kids Committee, the Children’s Christmas Shopping Spree, the Freedom Grant through the Veterans Committee, Redneck Parties, Ice Cream Socials, and has generously helped serve food and prepare desserts for Friday night dinners. Brianna is well known for saying she will step in wherever she is needed — and she truly means it.
When asked what she enjoys most about being an Elk, Brianna simply says, “the volunteering and the opportunities for community involvement.” That spirit perfectly reflects the values of our Order.
Congratulations, Brianna Vanwey, on being named Elk of the Month for March 2026. Your dedication, kindness, and willingness to serve truly make a difference, and this recognition is well deserved.
Originally published in the March 2026 Tracks newsletter of Phoenix Elks Lodge #335. Read the full issue (PDF).
← Back to News