Jean Block
Chief Legal Officer at Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
The arc of my life. I grew up in a Section 8 apartment complex with a single parent and was the first in my family to attend college. Then I became licensed to practice law in two states. I moved to Arkansas 17 years ago without knowing anyone, but I’ve built a legal career that’s led me to a senior management position in our state’s largest wastewater utility.
What advice would you give to a young woman starting her career?
Always give 100%, people notice. Be kind to yourself when you make a mistake. Self-care is as important as hard work. And, if she’s in a male-dominated field like I am, I’d tell her “there’s room for you at the top, never doubt that!”
What do you love most about what you do?
First, that the work I do is meaningful to Little Rock’s quality of life. Second, that I get to work with 216 smart and talented people, and finally that I’m presented with new challenges every day.
How do you hope to be remembered?
I hope people will say that I was genuine, reliable, and loyal. Also, that I loved to laugh and to have a good time, and that I threw great parties!