2024 Legacy Award Luncheon

From modest beginnings on the south side of San Antonio to becoming a business maven and long-time community contributor, Rosemary Kowalski has been an integral part of San Antonio’s history and a driving force in its evolution as a hospitality leader. Since 1946, when Rosemary and her husband Henry opened their first venture, Uncle Ben’s Barbeque, the core values of service, family, and community have defined what is now known as the RK Group. The company is renowned for setting new standards in innovative hospitality and event services, distinguished by fresh ingredients, creative menus, meticulous attention to detail, and a steadfast commitment to community service. From HemisFair ’68 to events and organizations across South Texas and beyond, Rosemary’s dedication to volunteerism and community support has deeply influenced the Kowalski family.

Under the second-generation leadership of President and CEO Greg Kowalski, alongside his wife, Special Project Manager Bekki Kowalski, the family tradition of quality, service, and innovation thrives. They lead a dedicated team of over 800 employees, continuing the legacy set forth by Rosemary. This foundation of community service is further strengthened by the third generation, led by Chief Administrative Officer Travis Kowalski, Chief Strategy Officer Jennifer K. Heinz, and Vice President of Corporate Relations Jamie Kowalski. These leaders consistently make a positive impact on charitable, arts, civic, and veterans-dedicated organizations across Texas.

The family’s support extends to numerous area organizations, including the Alamo Asian American Chamber of Commerce, Southwest Crafts Center, San Antonio Museum of Art, San Antonio Zoo, The DoSeum, Afternoon All Stars, Respite Care of San Antonio, Blessed Sacrament Academy, Texas A&M San Antonio, San Antonio Area Foundation, Any Baby Can, Daily Bread Ministries, Hope for the Future, Hispanic Heritage Center, American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, Girl Scouts – Trefoil, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, K-9s for Warriors, the National WWII Museum, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Friends Foundation,  and many others. Their enduring tradition of quality, service, and community commitment serves as an inspiration.

The RK Group and the Kowalski family epitomize servant leadership. Their selfless dedication to organizations like the Briscoe and many others continues to strengthen and enrich our community