REP. MARY GROVES BLAND

Missouri Rep. Mary Bland, a Democrat, represents part of Jackson County (District 43) in the Missouri House of Representatives.

Voted as one of Kansas City's Most Influential Persons, Rep. Bland has been the recipient of many awards from the following groups: Blacks in Government in 1985; City of Jefferson in 1985; Alliance of Alumni Association of the University of Missouri in 1987; Missouri Department of Health in 1992; National Black Caucus of State Legislators in 1987; Mtumishi Service Award in 1993; Tony Boyland Outstanding Legislator in 1988 and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.

Rep. Bland's legislative achievements include legislation dealing with the handicapped, social services, health and education.

Chairwoman of the Board of Freedom, Inc., Rep. Bland is a member of the following organizations: Niles Home for Children, Treasurer; Missouri Legislative Black Caucus Foundation; Minority Business Advocacy Commission; Honorary Chairwoman and convener, Minority Health Advisory Committee; First Vice President, National Black Caucus of State Legislators; Council of State Governments-Southern Legislative Conference Human Resources Committee; National Council of State Legislators Assembly on Federal Issues Health Committee; and the St. James Paseo United Methodist Church.

A 1954 graduate of R. T. Cole High School in Kansas City, Rep. Bland attended Ottawa University where she received certification in Community Relations. She has also taken courses at Penn Valley and Pioneer Colleges.

Born Jan. 24, 1936, in Kansas City, Rep. Bland currently resides there. She has four children: Pamela, Rodney, Craig and Arletha.