An Advocate for the Arts Mary Perry

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Mary Perry first fell in love with the arts when she was young and exploring music. Since then, Alexander City’s 2023 Woman of the Year has worked diligently to promote all forms of art, but especially the performing arts, throughout the area.

“I’ve been involved with music most of my life. I started out here with piano lessons with Ms. Rebecca White. Following my lessons with her, I was involved with the church choir, and I also participated in the school band throughout junior high and high school,” Perry explained.

Perry’s love for music ran deep, and she contemplated it as a major at Birmingham Southern, but when her plans changed, she continued to stay involved in the arts.

Life and work whisked her away for several years, but after returning to the area in 2001 to care for her mother, Perry’s leap into community involvement escalated. She’s been dedicated to continuing her involvement for more than 20 years.

“Community involvement gives me a sense of purpose and the feeling that I’m accomplishing something. Involving myself in the community is something I’m passionate about. I really want this area to have a wonderful opportunity to participate and enjoy the arts,” Perry said.

With this in mind, Perry has dedicated years to several organizations in the community, urging others to embrace the arts and the good they can do for the area.

She serves as president of the Alex City Arts Council and has been active in this role since 2018. This 501(c)3 volunteer-based organization has brought a wide variety of entertaining performances to Alexander City and the surrounding area.

Along with this demanding position, Perry also serves on other local boards, including Alexander City Theatre II – the local community theatre. She is the Flint Hill Church council chair and music director and sits on the board of the Veritas Christian School.

Perry’s love of the arts, combined with the love of her community, prompted her community service and involvement, and she’s eager to continue her work as the art scene here continues to grow.

“Alex City is home, and I love it. It just has that small town camaraderie and charm. You can really get to know people here, and I believe this community has a lot of potential yet,” Perry explained.

Though she has dedicated herself to several boards and volunteer positions over the years, Perry was shocked when she was called on stage to receive the Woman of the Year designation at the 10th Annual Lead Forward Women’s Conference and Business Expo held this spring at the Central Alabama Community College Betty Carol Graham Technology Center.

“I did not expect it, and I was totally surprised. I just felt so honored. I’ve never strived to be outstanding in any area, I’m just doing what I’ve always done. To be recognized for doing things has just been a great honor and a true blessing,” Perry said.

Little did Perry know, there was another surprise in store for her as she made her way to the stage. Friends and family from South Carolina, Kentucky and Georgia made their way to CACC to show their support for Perry and celebrate the milestone.

“They all kept it a secret from me,” Perry explained. “After I went out with my friends and family, I was exhausted. I went home and read the letters. They gave me copies of the letters of nomination and cards that people had given them, and I read through them all,” Perry said.

For those who are eager to get involved with their community, Perry recommends finding something you’re interested in doing and something that fulfills a desire you may have.

“Find something you can be passionate about,” Perry said.