Rev. Mrs. Carolyn Whiteside-Kendall
Reverend Carolyn Whiteside-Kendall is the CEO and Founder of The Warrior Center, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering minority women who find themselves on the brink of personal and professional challenges. Through a six-week training program combined with therapy, career coaching, and interview preparation, she equips women with the tools they need to re-enter the workforce confidently and successfully. Her organization also provides guidance in resume writing, life coaching, and skill development, all rooted in her deep commitment to faith, service, and community transformation.
With a Master of Divinity from Harding University and a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas, Reverend Whiteside-Kendall brings both spiritual insight and practical expertise to her work. Her professional experience spans decades, including nearly 30 years supervising instructors at the Jonesboro Human Development Center, serving as an Arkansas State University exam proctor, and guiding women through her Mary Kay business, helping them build confidence and self-assurance. She is also a licensed LegalShield consultant and a notary public, reflecting her dedication to providing practical support to those she serves.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Reverend Whiteside-Kendall is deeply involved in her community as clergy at New Beginning’s Missionary Baptist Church and a member of the Jonesboro Chamber of Commerce. Recognized by Marquis Who’s Who for her leadership and service, she is a passionate mentor, grant writer, and advocate for minority women, using her platform to create partnerships, organize job fairs, and empower others to achieve both personal and professional growth.
• Notary Public Commission
• Harding University - MDiv
• Marquis Who’s Who
• Missionary Baptist Church
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong work ethic and a genuine desire to empower others. I believe that by dedicating myself fully to my responsibilities and lifting those around me, I can create meaningful impact while fostering growth and collaboration in every environment I am part of.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to get out there and work hard, because no one is obligated to give you anything. Success comes from taking initiative, proving your value, and creating your own opportunities rather than waiting for them to be handed to you.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Set a goal and make a strategic plan as to how you will obtain your desired goals. Because if you do not make a plan, you plan to fail. No guidelines, rules and or discipline for yourself and you will just drift, never staying on course and ever in a quandary as to why; your mindset is your why. Stay focused. Plan.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is securing adequate funding. At the same time, this challenge presents an opportunity to innovate—finding creative solutions, building strong partnerships, and demonstrating the value and impact of our work can open new avenues for resources and growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The most important value in my work and personal life is my belief in God. It guides my decisions, shapes how I treat others, and provides a foundation of integrity, purpose, and resilience in everything I do.