78R3599 JNC-D By: Dutton H.R. No. 86R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Roderick Kennedy of Houston has been chosen to receive an Outstanding Texan award by the Texas Legislative Black Caucus in recognition of his many notable contributions in the area of entertainment; and WHEREAS, The Outstanding Texan award was created to honor individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving, developing, and enriching the lives of others; and WHEREAS, As the band instructor at Ralph E. Kirby Middle School, Mr. Kennedy introduces students to the joys of music, inspiring countless youths with his invigorating teaching style; and WHEREAS, Mr. Kennedy realized at a young age that music was in his blood, and he was determined to find a profession that enabled him to share this passion with others; he received a bachelor's degree in music education from Prairie View A&M University and later returned to earn a master's degree in music performance; and WHEREAS, Since Mr. Kennedy began his tenure at Kirby Middle School, his pupils have been invited to play at the Liberty Bowl in Memphis and the Gator Bowl in Florida, a great honor for the students and for their teacher; and WHEREAS, This dedicated gentleman has worked hard to make his dreams a reality, and through his successes, the lives of Kirby Middle School children are forever enriched; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 78th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Roderick Kennedy on being named an Outstanding Texan by the Texas Legislative Black Caucus and extend to him sincere best wishes for success and happiness in his future endeavors; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Kennedy as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.