01 Jan 2023 Lives of Legacy: Jolinda Bryant

Jolinda Sue Bryant is a Fiscal Support Specialist with Conway Human Development Center, a home for intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals. CHDC has provided comprehensive residential treatment services since 1959 and has more than 800 employees who serve 450 residents. 

For 57 years, Jolinda has been an essential part of the team, working initially as Personnel Secretary. After a couple of years, some of her responsibilities were transferred to the Business Office, and she moved into that department. Five years later, the accountant retired, and she applied for the position and upgraded to her present title. “That was the best move in my career,” Jolinda said. “I never wanted to leave the Business Department because I loved what I was doing to maintain sound accounting practices.”

In addition to her job, she was also acting switchboard operator supervisor for 22 years. During Jolinda’s tenure, she has worked under 13 governors and for six of the seven superintendents of the facility. “Many people do not realize that some of the most tenured state employees continue to work at CHDC,” said current Superintendent Sarah Murphy. “This is a primary reason for its continued success.”

What’s the most important risk you took during your career, and what made you take it? 

In the 90s they said we would have to go to a computer system. I can go like nobody’s business on a calculator, but I had not grown up with computers, and when they told me I thought I was going to die. But we were trained, and now I wouldn’t change it for anything. It’s so much faster!

How have you kept yourself motivated when facing obstacles? 

I have strived to make sure that accounting records are correct for legislative audits and that I balance every day. I am consistent and rarely take off. In fact, I recently donated 40 hours of sick time that other state employees can use to be off. I’m a go-to person and don’t mind being called or texted at home when co-workers need help or answers. 

When you look back at your time with CHDC, what accomplishment makes you most proud?

I started at CHDC 57 years ago and married Robert 56 years ago. My goal has never been to overachieve someone else. When I see the staff showing compassion and love to clients, I know that’s the place that I want to be. My work has been rewarding, and I hope to leave a legacy of being kind, resourceful and helpful.