05-03-2025
Remarkable Women: Liberty-Grace Bland, a heart for Abilene & the arts
ABILENE, Texas () – The sound of the Abilene Philharmonic is cherished by many Big Country residents, including Executive Director Liberty-Grace Bland. Though she's relatively new to the role, her deep connection to the community has been evident from the start.
Bland first came to Abilene as a student at Abilene Christian University, and it was then that she fell in love with the city's unique spirit.
'Abilene pulls together as a community so much and it's really the heartbeat of our community. That is just really inspiring to me, and it makes me want to play my part and to make a difference in any level and way of impact that I can make,' Bland said.
After graduating, she left at the age of 20 to study at Oral Roberts University and then traveled to Jerusalem. But when it was time to return, she felt called to come back and serve in Abilene. She started at the Chamber of Commerce, later transitioning to a role with the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women's Health at its Abilene location, an experience she considers one of the highlights of her career.
'The number one thing I loved was getting to make a difference in the lives of women and girls, and specifically those from underprivileged neighborhoods in our community,' Bland said. 'I loved it because the Laura Bush Institute was so collaborative, and we got to partner with other organizations in our community and help come alongside them on the good work that they were doing.'
Now, Bland serves as the Executive Director of the Abilene Philharmonic, but her mission to make a positive impact on the Key City remains unchanged.
'I grew up going to the symphony and always been something that I loved. After a lot of consideration and prayer, I decided that it was a good next step and it would be a great place for me to be able to make an impact,' Bland said. 'I just never want to lose sight of the purpose. I feel like seeing people for who they really are and seeing the best in them is so important. If I can be that bright spot in just one person's day each day, I know that I'm making an impact.'
Outside of her professional role, Bland volunteers with Big Country CASA, helping children navigate difficult times — something she found invaluable during her own upbringing.
'My parents are divorced and so obviously I know what it feels like to be going through some seasons that are hard and as a child, sometimes you're not equipped with the emotional level to deal with the things that you're having to deal with,' Bland said. 'Sometimes what people need the most in their life is somebody present and willing to show up with them when they're in the trenches. That inspired me because I've received that on an individual level. If I can pay that forward and give that to someone else, that's really fulfilling.'
Her advice to young professionals is simple: show up for every opportunity, no matter how intimidating or nerve-wracking it may seem.
Throughout March, four women will be recognized on BigCountryHomepage for their remarkable efforts in the community. The winner of this year's Remarkable Women contest will be announced on April 1, 2025.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
