Mary Millben facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mary Millben
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Millben in 2019
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| Born | March 4, 1982 |
| Alma mater | Putnam City High School; The University of Oklahoma |
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| Musical career | |
| Genres | World Music |
| Instruments | Vocals, violin |
| Years active | 2008 – present |
Mary Jorie Millben is a talented American singer, actress, and media personality. She is known for her powerful voice and has performed for four U.S. Presidents: George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden. Mary also leads her own company, JMDE Enterprises, Incorporated. She was even nominated for a Helen Hayes Award in 2010, which celebrates excellence in theater.
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Early Life and Education
Mary Millben was born and grew up in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Her father is Rev. Michael Millben. Her mother, Althea Millben, was a classically trained singer and a music pastor.
Mary started singing at age five. She joined the children's choir at Wildewood Christian Church in Oklahoma City. After her parents divorced in 1987, her mother raised her.
Mary attended Putnam City High School. She also participated in Oklahoma Girls State and Girls Nation programs. Later, she studied opera at the University of Oklahoma. Her teacher was tenor Don Bernardini. While at the university, Mary made history. She was elected the first African-American female vice-president of the Student Body in 2003. The next year, in 2004, she became the second African-American female Student Body President.
Mary Millben's Career
Working at the White House
In 2005, Mary Millben worked as an intern at the White House. This was during President George W. Bush's time in office. From September 2006 to January 2009, she was a presidential appointee for President Bush.
Her professional singing career began in 2008. Former First Lady Laura Bush invited Mary to be a guest soloist. Mary sang for the White House Holiday Season.
Performances Around the World
Critics have praised Mary's strong soprano voice. The Washington Examiner newspaper highlighted her talent.
In 2013, Mary performed a solo concert in Europe. This concert was part of the Black History Month celebration in Zagreb, Croatia.
Mary has also performed for important international events. On November 21, 2019, she was invited by Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai. She sang The Star-Spangled Banner (the U.S. national anthem) and the March of the Volunteers (the Chinese national anthem). This was for the 40th Anniversary of U.S.–China Student Exchanges. The event took place at the Embassy of China in Washington, D.C.. She performed the U.S. national anthem again on January 17, 2024. This was for the 45th Anniversary of U.S.-China diplomatic relations.
In June 2023, Mary sang the National Anthem of India. She performed at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. This was during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the U.S. President Joe Biden hosted the event. Mary has also publicly supported Prime Minister Modi.
On July 18, 2024, Mary performed the U.S. national anthem. This was on the last day of the 2024 Republican National Convention.
Personal Life
Mary Millben is a devoted Christian. She has three sisters: Micthea Millben-Ireland, her twin Michelle Millben, and Melissa Millben. She also has two brothers: Malachi Millben and JT Ireland.
