In the latest edition of a spotlight series launched in February 2023 to feature integrated business operations (IBO) and administration staff at the Yale Child Study Center (YCSC) and Department of Psychiatry, meet YCSC Financial Assistant IV Belinda E. Oliver, who is also a trained marriage and family therapist. She is leaving Yale this summer to pursue her work at CT Counseling Center in Cheshire and has been a part of the YCSC community for over 30 years.
How would you describe your social and/or cultural identities?
I identify as a Black woman who is a mother, daughter, grandmother, and elder whom many in my community call Momma or Auntie Bee. Many know me to be a friend – loving, compassionate, and helpful during life challenges. I often get stopped when I am out in the community because so many know me from social media. It still amazes me how many follow my wisdom posts. It is never lost on me, and it is humbling.
How long have you been at Yale and what roles have you held?
I have been at Yale for thirty-three years as of May 28, 2024. I initially began with Dr. Comer and the School Development Program as the SDP Receptionist. I often tease Dr. C. and tell him I came to Yale as a baby. SDP was a family and many of us had young children. After school, the offices were quite busy with kiddos in our midst. I left Yale by choice for a few months and returned. I filled a position at the hospital for a small amount of time before being offered a position within the Child Study Center Business Office as a Financial Assistant.
What led you to your current job or career?
I started working at Yale as the SDP Receptionist in 1991 after having my first son. It was a natural job inclination as I was able to type over 60 words per minute after high school and won a New Haven City-wide typing contest – and I still have the trophy.
As I leave the university now, I reflect on so many decisions surrounding my return to pursue higher education. I obtained my bachelor’s in psychology in 2014. I then finished a couple of books and went back to school in 2016. In March 2019, I completed a master’s in organizational leadership and started a clinical program that August.
My final decision to become a clinician can be attributed to Dr. Maysa Akbar. She was kind enough to sit down and have a conversation with me about my next career move. She knew I wanted to do nonprofit initiatives. When I mentioned a PhD to her, she replied, "Belinda, we need you now." This led me to explore my options in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I give honor to my sons because having a mom who was in ministry, a student and worked full-time could not have been easy. It was our constant narrative. They often joke that I am a career student. But their support has been valuable, precious, and sweet.
What is a work-related accomplishment that made you feel proud?
Co-chairing with Dr. Andrés Martin and leading over 300 of my colleagues on a town hall hosted by the YCSC titled, “Ripple of Hope: Race Relations and Advancing Anti-racism in Our Community” in 2020 after George Floyd's murder. And collaborating with my colleagues in establishing the annual celebrations of Black History Month and Juneteenth for the department.
What energizes you outside of work?
As a grandmother, I love spending time with my five grandsons. I also enjoy writing and creating educational tools as an author and educator. I love helping people find their purpose in life. Technically, there is no “outside of work.” It is all part of my life. My sons often tease me that mom is always helping people. They have become used to people walking up and asking, “Aren’t you Belinda’s son?” That is what energizes me!
What would you like to share that might surprise your colleagues?
Life is a journey, not a destination – I share this in my welcome letter to my new clients. Had you told me thirty-three years ago that I would have accomplished what I have so far, I might not have believed you. I remember when I finished one of my first books and shared the knowledge with Sandra Greer (Yale HR), she was not surprised. I appreciate her so much for her belief in me and for rehiring me at the university. She hunted me down and offered me a position which eventually led me back to the Child Study Center. Many others have encouraged me along the way as I forge a new path. If you are one, please know that I appreciate your support and words. I am grateful to you!
Belinda is retiring from Yale as of August 1, 2024, after 33 years of service, and in addition to all above, she shared that one of her favorite sayings is “It’s not about you!” noting that the things we go through in life are not always about us. She added:
There are many things that folk take personally, i.e., when things happen to you. But if you can understand what God intends for you and often uses your life as an example, then…ahh, things take on a different perspective. 'The only limitations you will encounter are the ones you put on yourself.'