Molly Brown Found Home in Wichita — and Brought Her Family Along

When Molly Brown moved to Wichita in 2017 to start her freshman year at Friends University, she brought along a suitcase, a tennis racket and a dream.

The Wisconsin native thought she would compete on the court, get her degree in zoo science and volley to the next adventure. Little did she know, she would fall in love with Wichita – so much that she continues to call it home today.

So, what makes Wichita so special? For Molly, it’s the people.

“Wichita is the ‘biggest small town’ you’ll ever experience. It’s full of new restaurants, local events and opportunities to explore, yet small enough that you’re on a first-name basis with your neighbors and run into familiar faces at the farmers’ market,” she shared. “It’s a city that supports local businesses, celebrates its community and stays true to its roots even as it grows and innovates.”

Living Like a Local

Even though Molly came from a rural background, she dove into Wichita life with curiosity.

“I’ve loved exploring Wichita as if I were a tourist every weekend — discovering new spots, uncovering hidden gems and becoming a regular at my favorite local hangouts,” she said.

Her weekends are filled with volunteering with Junior League Wichita, engaging with W Young Professionals or meeting new friends through ICT Social Club. If she had to sum up her Wichita experience in one word? Engaging.

How Her Family Joined the Adventure

Here’s the twist in Molly’s Wichita story: she didn’t just choose to stay. She got her whole family to move here, too!

It started with a half-joking conversation in an airport with her dad.

“He said, ‘I wish I didn’t have to leave,’ and I joked, ‘Well, what’s stopping you from staying?’” Molly remembers.

That little spark turned into canceled flights, townhome tours and eventually, her parents making Wichita their new home as they entered retirement.

Her younger sister soon followed for grad school at Friends University, later launching her own therapy practice in Wichita.

“Three years later, my parents and sister are fully invested in Wichita life, and now we get to enjoy all these experiences together,” Molly said.

What Life Looks Like Now

From cheering on NCAA March Madness games and going to Zoobilee, to adopting a dog and gathering for Sunday dinners, Molly says Wichita has given her family a life they couldn’t have imagined.

“Having my family here is priceless,” she said. “It makes everything — from big community events to small everyday moments — that much sweeter.”

Thinking About Wichita?

If you’re considering a move, Molly has simple advice: Wichita is where you’ll find both growth and belonging.

“It’s a city that supports local businesses, nurtures innovation and feels like home all at once,” she said. “Opportunities are here, but what makes Wichita different is the way people want to help you succeed.”