Member profile: Anna Gangai Liesman

If you’ve been to any recent Impact San Antonio events, there’s a good chance you’ve seen Anna Gangai Liesman helping at the welcome table. A member since 2018, Anna has a cheerful personality that makes her a joy to work with. And she’s had a long and interesting career as an actress in San Antonio. Here’s what she has to say about our organization and her work on the stage.

How did you first hear about Impact San Antonio?

I heard about Impact from my good friend, Harriet C. Smith. She started talking about it and asked if I would like to join. It was something I had never heard of, and I was very interested. As soon as I joined, I jumped right in with volunteering whenever I could.

Why did you decide to join? You are part of a shared membership. Who is the other woman in that membership?

I joined because Impact SA is a woman’s group that gives grants to the nonprofit community, helping adults and children in the San Antonio area. After I did some research, it seemed like the thing I had been searching for — to get involved and help out. I have a shared membership with my very good friend, Terri Pena Ross.

What impresses and/or inspires you about the work of Impact SA?

Impact SA impressed me with its ability to serve a huge section of the community with its collective giving process and the five Focus Areas. The amount of money is large enough that it is a game changer for the nonprofits that receive a High Impact Grant. Also, I have met so many wonderful women who are members with whom I otherwise might never have crossed paths. Not only is it an organization I am proud to be a part of and try to share with others, but I have also gained insight into service providers that are vital to neighborhoods, families and the people of the San Antonio area.

What volunteer work have you done in the organization?

I have served on two Grant Review committees and the Membership Committee. Yes, I love to help at events. I usually greet people at the door or help with name tags, act as a guide, or generally help where needed.  I was at the membership table for Celebration, helping with check-in.

Are there any volunteer positions you would like to take on in the future?

As soon as my life settles down a bit in the future, I would like to volunteer more. Working on Grant Review Committees is something I look forward to.

You have done quite a bit of acting work in the San Antonio area. Please tell us about your acting career.

I have always loved the spotlight and performing. My degree is from the University of Texas at Austin Department of Drama. I’ve been an actress in San Antonio for more than 40 years and stay active in the theater community by singing, acting and promoting live theater. Some of my favorite roles that I’ve done in San Antonio are “Victor/Victoria,” “Mame,” Dolly in “Hello, Dolly,” and Maria Callas in “Master Class.” I’ll be performing Broadway songs at the Cave with No Name in the Hill Country on September 30 with five of my good friends. I’m also doing a Real Life Productions show in the Cellar at the Public Theatre called “The Sunset Club” in mid-November.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I am proud to be a part of and work with the fantastic women of Impact San Antonio!