Mary Groves Bland

"I figured if we could pursue creative solutions for better services to those who were underserved, starting with babies, children and women, then all citizens would benefit."

"I had a lot of hope and passion to help people move the needle in their own lives with the help of education and services designed to reduce the disparities."

"In the early years, Bland voraciously absorbed information she had access to and applied that education to helping her community find better access and pathways of support for its citizens of color and underserved populations."

"Bland’s legacy is one of a dedicated public servant who encouraged young people to further their education and participate in public service."

"Her daughter Arletha Bland-Manlove said she was an “extraordinary public servant” who earned respect from residents in her area."

"One of the most important things that she always wanted people to know was that she was here to help, and she was a servant of God."

"She was very motivated by what she believed to be right"

"Mary Groves Bland was a tireless public servant and an unwavering champion for social justice throughout her life, and I was honored to know and work with her."

"She didn't like to be called a politician; she like to be called a servant of the people."