Meet Brad Benham! Born and raised right here in Abilene, Brad is a proud Wylie graduate who went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Abilene Christian University. He later pursued his law degree at Pepperdine University School of Law in Malibu, California—where he also met his wife, Janelle, a journalist and news producer from Southern California.
After spending several years practicing law and working in higher education in Los Angeles, Brad and Janelle returned to Abilene to prioritize both their professional goals and their growing family. Since then, Brad has served as President of the ACU Foundation and now leads as System Vice President of the Hendrick Medical Center Foundation. Brad also serves as Chair of the city's Planning and Zoning Commission, while Janelle serves as Chair of the Abilene Zoological Society. Together, they’re raising their two daughters, ages 10 and 7.
We thought our valued partners would enjoy getting to know the person leading your Chamber over the next year. So, without further ado, meet Brad!
Involvement with the Chamber
Brad has been active in the Chamber since returning to Abilene in 2015. He first got involved with the Abilene Young Professionals through ACU, graduated from Leadership Abilene Class of 2017, served as a breakout speaker at two West Texas Leadership Summits, and has served on the Chamber’s Executive Board for the past three years.
Why is it important your business is a part of a Chamber?
“Good businesses mean good jobs, and good jobs mean good families. When we promote local employers and Abilene, we are building on the legacy of those who came before us, and it’s our responsibility to push it forward for the next generation.”
Favorite part about volunteering with the Chamber?
“Getting the opportunity to meet so many different people who all share the same goal: to make Abilene the best city it can be. It’s not about self-promotion—it’s about caring deeply for our families and our neighbors.”
Why is a successful Chamber important to the community?
“Abilene—and more importantly, its people—embody the spirit of West Texas. Out here on the prairie, if we don’t take care of one another, no one else is going to. A successful Chamber helps us build, serve, create, and celebrate while reinvesting in local businesses and uplifting the employees who make our community thrive.”
Favorite Quote
“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors – in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.” – Fred Rogers
What inspires you?
“My Granny, Betty Womack Benham from Hawley. She was a single mom who worked multiple jobs to provide for her four kids. Her heart and sacrifices instilled hard work, faith, and family values that continue to shape our family today.”
Dogs or cats?
“Dogs for the house—Big Cats for the Zoo!”
Accomplishment you are most proud of?
“Marrying Janelle. No matter where we live or what our jobs are—if we can do it together, I know it will be great.”
Last book you read?
Berenstain Bears Go to Space
Favorite thing to do when not working?
“Taking day trips with our girls to state parks.”
Favorite place to vacation?
“California to visit family!”
Your family
Brad and Janelle are raising two daughters, ages 10 and 7.