Community Engagement
Mr. Runnels has always impressed upon his students the importance of being inclusive in the community. As a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc, Texas Band Masters Association, Texas Music Educators Association, and Mt. Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, he is experienced first hand with community service. Mr. Runnels' students have participated in many community events including the Susan B. Komen Cancer Walk, Pros Conference, The Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Also, the Stephen F. Austin band has participated as the opening performance in nearly every Houston parade and performed in both Galveston and New Orleans Mardi Gras while receiving rave reviews.
Mr. Runnels has presented in symposiums across Houston in conjunction with Dr. Virgil Woods and Jeremy Irons. These symposiums were created to motivate inner city youth to remain active in their respective communities and make wise choices while remaining in co-curricular activities. Mr. Runnels recommendations were:
Mr. Runnels has presented in symposiums across Houston in conjunction with Dr. Virgil Woods and Jeremy Irons. These symposiums were created to motivate inner city youth to remain active in their respective communities and make wise choices while remaining in co-curricular activities. Mr. Runnels recommendations were:
- Do the right thing even when no one is watching.
- Work hard, even when you DON'T feel like it.
- Pray first.