Celebrating Inclusive Leadership: Sandra Bryant, Brookhaven’s First Latina City Clerk
In February 2015, Sandra Bryant embarked on a public service journey that would eventually lead her to become the first Latina City Clerk for the City of Brookhaven. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep connection to her community – a story that represents the power of diversity in leadership to make DeKalb County stronger. After beginning her career as a tax clerk for the City of Doraville, Sandra worked her way up, serving as the city clerk before joining Brookhaven in 2015 as the Deputy City Clerk. By July 2024, she was appointed City Clerk, a role she continues to serve in today.
Reflecting on her role, Sandra shared the pride she feels working with Brookhaven’s leadership. “To me, being the city clerk, it’s a privilege and an honor to work for the mayor and the council, and serve the citizens with any inquiries they might have.” Sandra’s gratitude extends beyond her position. She speaks highly of the collaborative and inclusive culture in Brookhaven, noting how the mayor and council are proactive in ensuring that all departments, not just the Clerk’s office, receive the resources they need to succeed. “They are committed to ensuring that everyone has the necessary tools to perform their work effectively.”
But what truly shapes Sandra’s approach to public service is her upbringing and the values instilled in her by her father. Sandra’s father, who worked tirelessly to provide for his family, took on any job he could to ensure their future. His journey began in the fields of California in the 1980s, moved on to caring for horses in Seattle during the 1990s, and eventually led him to Georgia in 1996, where he worked at Whole Foods Market until his retirement in 2012. His relentless work ethic and dedication to his family have been Sandra’s greatest inspiration.
“He taught my siblings and me about responsibility,” Sandra recalls. “If you say you’re going to be somewhere, you get there on time. If somebody depends on you, you make sure you’re dependable.” These early lessons in work ethic, punctuality, and reliability, learned by watching her father’s sacrifices and unwavering commitment, form the foundation of Sandra’s professional philosophy and guide her every day in her role as a public servant.
Sandra honors her father’s legacy by applying these values daily in her role as City Clerk, striving to represent not only herself but also her family and cultural background. “I’ve seen how much he worked for us to have the life we have now, and I want to follow his example.” For Sandra, being a public servant is not just a job, it’s a reflection of her commitment to her family’s values and the community she serves.
Fostering Representation and Diversity in DeKalb County
Sandra’s position as the first Latina City Clerk is a landmark achievement in Brookhaven, and she recognizes the significance of her role both for herself and DeKalb’s Hispanic community. “I think being the first Hispanic City Clerk has to do with the mayor and council’s commitment to diversity. Brookhaven is very inclusive.” She points out that the city’s leadership reflects the community’s diversity, with a Hispanic council-member, Michael Diaz, and a mayor of Korean descent, John Park.
Brookhaven’s Hispanic population makes up approximately 25% of the community, and Sandra feels a deep responsibility to serve them. “I get to talk to Hispanic individuals who need help or advice on who to contact for specific issues. If someone comes in and doesn’t speak English, we have several staff members, including myself, who can assist.” Sandra sees her role as a bridge between the city’s Hispanic residents and the local government, ensuring they feel supported and represented. “I just want anyone in the Hispanic community to know that I am here to serve them, to help with whatever they need.”
Although Sandra has faced no significant challenges related to her heritage in Brookhaven, she acknowledges that inclusion is not a given everywhere. “I’ve always felt welcome here. The mayor and council are supportive of education and promoting within the organization.” Her experience stands as a testament to Brookhaven’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment, where diversity is celebrated and valued. This kind of leadership sets an example across DeKalb County, illustrating how welcoming diverse perspectives strengthens communities.
Transparent and Inclusive Leadership in the Clerk’s Office
As City Clerk, Sandra is dedicated to maintaining a high standard of transparency and accessibility. Her office is responsible for managing open records and ensuring that all information about city operations is readily available to the public. “We handle open records, and we are transparent. We provide any information the public wants or needs, whether it’s about city meetings or votes by the mayor and council.” Sandra sees her role as a continuation of the ethical and transparent leadership established by her predecessor, Susan Hiott. “I want to continue the legacy of having an ethical, responsible department that serves the community.”
Inspiring Future Leaders
Sandra’s journey to leadership is a source of inspiration for aspiring leaders across DeKalb. Her advice to those who want to make a difference in their communities is simple but powerful: “Keep working, get your education, and don’t give up. You might not start with a traditional, private office, but that doesn’t define your ability to lead or serve your community.” Sandra encourages others to recognize their potential, even in the face of obstacles. “An office doesn’t make you a good leader—your abilities and dedication do.”
Sandra’s own career path, from a tax clerk in Doraville to City Clerk in Brookhaven, is a testament to perseverance and hard work. Her story exemplifies the importance of believing in oneself, seizing opportunities, and staying true to one’s values.
Brookhaven and DeKalb’s Vision for an Inclusive Future
Brookhaven’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in the city’s efforts to bring communities together, particularly through events like the International Festival, which usually takes place each October. Sandra is proud of the city’s initiatives to celebrate its diverse population. “The festival includes music, food, and performers, bringing not just the Hispanic community but the entire city together.”
When asked how local governments can continue to foster inclusion, Sandra emphasizes the importance of communication and dialogue. “Brookhaven listens. If there’s a government that doesn’t have Hispanic representation, we as Hispanics need to start the conversation.” She believes that by showing up, participating, and engaging in dialogue, the Hispanic community can continue to assert its importance and contribute to the greater good.
As Brookhaven’s first Latina City Clerk, Sandra is more than a public servant; she is a role model, a bridge-builder, and an advocate for inclusion. Her story highlights the importance of DeKalb County’s leadership in fostering a better, more inclusive future for everyone.
And at Decide DeKalb, we’re committed to fostering an environment where diverse voices and talents can thrive. Whether you’re a business owner, community leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, we invite you to join us in shaping a brighter future for DeKalb County. Learn more about our initiatives and how you can get involved at Decide DeKalb Development Authority.