Karla Bryant, neurology practice office manager, has received the 2025 Kelley Mullen Clinical Service Award, one of four annual WashU Medicine staff recognition awards. Bryant was nominated by her peers, recognizing her for her unparalleled “acts of caring that go beyond the normal expected levels of courtesy, responsiveness, and customer service and creates a positive work environment.” The award honors gifted nurse-clinician Kelley Mullen who exemplified quality service and personified the university’s clinical mission.
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Karla has built her career in the St. Louis area, beginning with her undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2001. Shortly after graduation, she joined Barnes-Jewish Hospital (BJH) as a patient care technician. Her early roles at BJH included working in the General Surgery/Trauma division and later in the Operating Room as an anesthesia assistant.
In 2007, she transitioned to WashU, starting as a medical assistant in the Department of Surgery. Over the years, Bryant had the opportunity to work across multiple departments, including the Department of Medicine-Siteman Cancer Center. In 2021, Bryant stepped into a leadership role as a Clinical Supervisor for an outpatient McMillan clinic and the Multiple Sclerosis section within the Department of Neurology. In 2023, Bryant was promoted to Practice Office Manager, overseeing two outpatient Adult Neurology clinics on the main campus, as well as the Epilepsy Section.
Throughout her time at WashU, I’ve developed a strong passion for the outpatient clinic setting. Bryant’s focus has been on creating clinic environments that are both patient-centered and supportive for staff. In her current leadership role, she feels privileged to help shape and enhance the clinical experience across eight adult neurology sections, including Stroke, Aging & Dementia, Epilepsy, Movement, Multiple Sclerosis, Neuromuscle, Infectious Disease, and General Neurology. Patient care and experience remain the core of her professional motivation.