Meet Barbara Blanks Bullard, Tennessee Gamma
Pi Beta Phi recognizes Tennessee Gamma Barbara Blanks Bullard with the 2024 Carolyn Helman Lichtenberg Crest Award for her efforts in community service.
How has your involvement with
Pi Beta Phi influenced or shaped your approach to service?
Pi Beta Phi has offered me opportunities to serve. From my college days, to my Alumnae Club to my affiliation with Arrowmont, when a situation has arisen that required an Artist’s touch, I have had the chance to offer my abilities. I have learned much from the wide and varied areas where I have had the chance to contribute.
What advice would you give to other Pi Phis who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities?
Say yes! Be open to new opportunities. Say yes when asked. Sometimes an unexpected or unlikely situation can open the door to new possibilities you never imagined.
In what ways do you believe your experiences as a Pi Phi have uniquely prepared you for your professional role?
I have been offered various opportunities to put my abilities to use via Pi Beta Phi. From designing sets and costumes for Pi Phi college productions, to designing décor for the Nashville, Tennessee, Alumnae Club Christmas Village and being a vendor at the Village, to service on the Arrowmont Board. I have not only given, but received a great deal of knowledge and experience. In particular, Arrowmont has been a key factor in my success as an artist and art Educator, both as an Arrowmont student and as a board member.
What motivates and inspires you to continue your efforts in community service/your career?
I am motivated by gratitude. I am so grateful I have a useful talent I can share with my community and social organizations. I am especially grateful to have reached a time in my life where I can focus on my own serious art career.
What do you love most about your work?
I never tire of that "aha!" moment, that flash of sheer joy on the face of a student who creates something and says, “I didn’t know I could do that!”
What is something you wish you would have known sooner in life?
That I would eventually get to do it all. During the phases of my life when I was committed to my teaching career and raising a family, I despaired that I would ever have the chance to be a “real” artist. I realize now that there is a season for everything.
How do you measure personal success?
Over my lifetime, I have worn many hats, as a Pi Phi, a mother, an Art Educator and now as a successful practicing Artist. What I value most is the relationships I have established at every step along the way.
Published September 2, 2025