Bridging Business and Conservation: Sharon Bryant's CLT Story
At Congaree Land Trust, conservation and financial stewardship go hand in hand. For board member Sharon Bryant, the decision to join CLT came after an unexpected conversation with Executive Director, Stuart White. What began as a typical business conversation quickly turned into a deeper discussion about protecting South Carolina’s natural resources. Little did she know, that conversation would lead her to a new chapter of her career—and to a cause she is now passionate about: land conservation.
A New Frontier in Community Engagement
Sharon, a seasoned wealth management and banking professional with over 42 years of experience, has always been deeply involved in her community. In her role at First Citizens Bank, she has supported countless local initiatives, from education programs to local development projects. But when Stuart called on her to discuss CLT’s mission, it sparked something new.
“I’ve always been involved in community causes, but usually from a financial angle,” she explains. “I never thought I would be part of something like land conservation. I thought my husband—who’s an avid outdoorsman—would be the one to get involved. But when Stuart reached out, I realized this was something I really wanted to be part of. It was an opportunity to contribute to the future in a way that went beyond business as usual.”
For Sharon, joining CLT wasn’t just about preserving land—it was about creating a legacy for future generations. “It’s like the old saying: ‘You plant the tree that will provide shade for years to come.’ That’s what drew me in,” she shares. “We are protecting something that will outlast us, and it feels like the right thing to do.”
The Intersection of Conservation and Business
In her tenure at First Citizens, Sharon has come to understand that conservation isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s also good business. Congaree Land Trust, she believes, plays an essential role in ensuring that South Carolina’s natural beauty and resources are preserved, not only for today’s generations but for the decades to come.
“We need to create an environment where businesses and communities can thrive. That means being thoughtful about how we develop our land and the impact that has on our future,” she explains. “The work CLT does helps protect the land that will continue to support businesses, communities, and families in the long term.” She believes that through accessible messaging and education, Congaree Land Trust can help people understand how supporting conservation efforts benefits not only the environment but the economy as well.
Looking to the Future: Education, Outreach, and Growth
Beyond her role as a board member, Sharon has a personal love for the outdoors. She enjoys hiking and exploring nature, whether it’s on her property or while traveling. “I’m a ‘walk-in-the-woods’ kind of girl,” she laughs. “There’s something so simple and beautiful about nature. It has such a profound effect on me physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s a gift.”
For Sharon, these experiences reinforce her commitment to CLT’s mission. She believes that protecting nature is not just about preserving landscapes—it’s about safeguarding the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of communities for generations to come.
As she continues to serve on the board of Congaree Land Trust, Sharon is energized by the opportunity to make a lasting impact. “We have so much potential,” she says. “There’s a lot more we can do. We’re just getting started.”
For someone who has spent decades in the financial industry, this may seem like an unexpected next step. But for Sharon, it’s the perfect fit. “At this point in my career, I’m focused on making a difference. It’s about more than just business—it’s about securing a future where our children, grandchildren, and communities can thrive.” As a board member of Congaree Land Trust, Sharon is not only helping preserve South Carolina’s natural beauty, she’s ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to experience it, just as she has.
