Ernestine Dillard     Mrs. Ernestine Dillard is best remembered as “the singer who helped heal the wounds of our nation” during the Memorial Service for the victims and families of the Oklahoma City bombing tragedy, as she performed “God Bless America”. All in attendance, including President Clinton, Governor Keating and our beloved evangelist Rev. Billy Graham, were brought to their feet as she lifted her voice for our great nation. Within hours of her performance the Governor’s office was fielding inquiries from all over the world about her performance and how she had touched the hearts of many.     Mrs. Dillard resigned a 30-year nursing career and has now traveled extensively throughout the United States, Paris, France, Turkey and The Bahamas. She has been blessed to visit Africa on medical mission trips and states that the work was life changing.. Mrs. Dillard has performed for numerous Christian Events, National Conventions, Special Memorial Celebrations and observances, Christmas Concerts, CNN’s Trumpet Awards, Many Local and National Television shows Christian and secular also many benefit and fund raising events. She has received many awards and honors because of her community service and work with young people.     To mention a few:: The Society, Inc. an international arts organization gave her The Living Legend Award in inspirational vocal music, The W. C. Handy Heritage Award/Authentic Beale Street Musician Tulsa Public School’s Excellence Award for Volunteers She is an Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame Inductee/Gospel Music Many awards from State and National Political Organizations, Community Interest Organizations, Churches and Medical Organizations Although she has a busy schedule and loves the work she has been called to, Ernestine always enjoys returning to Oklahoma, where she makes her home in Bixby with her husband, Reverend Loomus Dillard.     Mrs. Dillard’s career has given her the opportunity to perform for two Presidents of the United States, State Senators, Governors and well-known celebrities such as Simon Estes, Isaac Hayes, Jessye Norman, Yolanda Adams, and many more renowned musicians. Most of all she sings always for the Glory of God! Ernestine was selected as a finalist from 145 entrants to compete with professionally trained female vocalists in the prestigious Savannah On Stage “American Traditions” competition. Her 30-minute musical presentation including her “God Bless America” medley received a standing ovation and she was awarded the gold medal first prize. With this honor came an invitation to tour with Ms. Della Reese and an invitation to perform at the Kennedy Center. She has also performed in The National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.     Mrs. Dillard mentors young people in the Tulsa Public school system and the community. She is a very gifted motivational speaker, community activist, is a graduate of Oral Roberts’ Ministry training Institute and is presently enrolled in International Bible University     What people are saying about Ernestine Dillard     "Here in the indoor arena on the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds the feeling is electric in the aisles, in the rows of seats, the President of the Unite States, tears welling in his eyes as Ernestine Dillard went to the mountain symbolically with her voice in singing 'God Bless America'." Bernard Shaw, CNN News     "...a rich, innate talent. One of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard." Maestro Bernard Rubenstein, Conductor, Tulsa Philharmonic Orchestra     "Dillard catapults through octaves with stunning ease and can sustain impossibly high notes with impressive power. Her performances send chills down the spine." James D. Watts, Jr., Tulsa World Review (re Moments of Truth)     "Ernestine Dillard's performance in Oklahoma City was absolutely stunning! Her natural instict for improvisation, her vocal agility and the obvious depth of her faith made her instantly captivating. What began as a concert of spirituals became a spiritual happening." Dr. Nettie Jean Williams, Conductor, Oklahoma City Metropolitan Chorus     Mrs. Dillard has a ministry, "Moments of Truth", and the vision and focus is love, unity, and peace. She says,"God's greatest gift, and our greatest weapon, is love. With love, our land can be healed, and with healing, unity can be achieved. Those who have an ear, let them hear songs to heal.